Behind the Scenes of MAS*H: Hidden Facts and Mistakes
A Classic Show with Some Surprising Mistakes
If you’re a fan of MASH*, you probably think you know it all—its humor, memorable moments, and iconic characters. The show became a cultural landmark, famous for its sharp writing and emotional depth. However, even MASH* wasn’t without its behind-the-scenes mistakes and oddities that many fans might not have noticed.
Real-Life Challenges on Set
During Season 5, William Christopher, who played Father Mulcahy, fell seriously ill with hepatitis. The illness was so severe that there were talks of writing him off the show. Instead, Alan Alda stepped in and wrote an entire episode, Hepatitis, that worked the actor’s real-life condition into the plot. This not only kept Christopher on the show but also showcased Alda’s care for his castmates.
Strange Coincidences
In the same Hepatitis episode, Frank Burns (played by Larry Linville) mentions having a tumor that is “pea-sized” under his sternum. Years later, Linville passed away from a tumor in the same area—an eerie coincidence that remains one of the series’ strangest moments.
Klinger’s Unexpected Popularity
Jamie Farr’s character, Klinger, was originally meant to appear in just one episode. However, his quirky character and comedic charm made him so popular that he became a regular on the show.
Military and Timeline Errors
There were a few inconsistencies in the show’s portrayal of military life. For instance, in Season 2, a Bell Huey UH-1 helicopter is shown in an episode, but the helicopter wasn’t introduced until three years after the Korean War ended. Additionally, the characters’ hairstyles were sometimes too modern for the 1950s setting.
Memorable Farewells
The departures of characters like Lt. Col. Blake and Radar O’Reilly were emotional milestones in the show, with Blake’s sudden death in a plane crash shocking fans and Radar’s departure remaining one of the series’ most heartfelt moments.
These behind-the-scenes facts and slip-ups only add more layers to the rich history of MASH*, making the show even more enjoyable for fans to revisit.
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