Gary Burghoff's Heartfelt Farewell to M*A*S*H

The Emotional Rollercoaster

Gary Burghoff, known for his iconic role as Cpl. Walter "Radar" O'Reilly on the hit CBS show M*A*S*H, experienced an emotional whirlwind as he bid farewell to the series. His departure was marked by a unique twist, as he ended up saying goodbye twice. This journey provides a deeper insight into Burghoff’s character and the emotional bond he had with the show and its cast.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

At the end of Season 8, in the episode “Good-Bye Radar: Part 2,” which aired on October 15, 1979, Radar’s farewell was interrupted by the arrival of wounded soldiers. This disruption meant that Radar never had a meaningful goodbye with his close friend Hawkeye, played by Alan Alda.

This lack of closure haunted Burghoff, leading to a heartfelt reflection on his final moments on set.

The Struggle to Perfect the Scene

In the special M*A*S*H: The Comedy That Changed Television, Burghoff shared his internal conflict during his final scene. He had envisioned a powerful, tear-filled farewell. “I said to myself, ‘What a wonderful moment, I can cry my eyes out, and I can do this wonderful dramatic moment, I can just completely fall apart,’” Burghoff recounted.

However, the director advised against this approach, suggesting he fight the tears.

Realization and Redemption

After seeing the initial footage, Burghoff realized his mistake. “The next day, in dailies, I look at the screen, and it’s awful. I mean, it is just terrible,” he admitted. Recognizing the director was right, he pleaded with executive producer Burt Metcalfe for a reshoot. Graciously, Metcalfe allowed it, giving Burghoff the chance to deliver a more fitting farewell.

A Personal Sacrifice

Burghoff's decision to leave M*A*S*H stemmed from a need to focus on his personal life. He explained, “My life at that time, it was a beautiful picture that was all crooked, and I had to step back, big time, in order to grow as a human being.” His seven-year contract had expired, and he chose not to renegotiate, prioritizing his family and personal growth over his career.

The Impact on Family

In a 2006 radio interview, Burghoff reflected on how his fame and demanding schedule affected his family. He admitted, “I was ‘not available’ to my children while filming M*A*S*H, and that even when he wasn’t on set, his fame had an impact on his family life.” This realization solidified his decision to step back and focus on what truly mattered—his family.

A Legacy Remembered

Burghoff’s portrayal of Radar left a lasting impact on fans and television history.

His ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments made Radar a beloved character. Even decades later, fans remember his contributions to the show and appreciate the depth he brought to his role.

Final Thoughts

Gary Burghoff’s journey on M*A*S*H is a testament to his dedication and emotional depth as an actor.

His willingness to reshoot his final scene underscores his commitment to his craft and the character he loved. As Burghoff himself said, stepping back from M*A*S*H was necessary for his personal growth, but his legacy as Radar will forever remain a cherished part of television history.