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70s Sitcom Star’s Radical Hat Message: Can You Guess Who It Is?

BBG News

70s M*A*S*H enthusiasts got a delightful surprise as one of their beloved actors from the series was spotted making appearances around Los Angeles.

In his eighty-fifth year, the actor, famously known for his role as army doctor B.J. Hunnicutt in the timeless series, appeared lively and full of vigor, engaging in some gardening tasks and effortlessly moving the trash cans with unexpected zest.

Back then, it was quite different from his time starring in that cherished sitcom. There, he dealt with the upheaval of a hospital on wheels amidst the Korean War, working alongside luminaries like Alan Alda and Loretta Swit.

Wearing a casual outfit consisting of a plain black long-sleeved shirt, jeans, and a baseball hat bearing the phrase ‘Make America Normal Again’ (a playful reference to the MAGA movement), his current attire stood in stark contrast to the 1950s military uniform he used to don.

However, it bore a resemblance to the relaxed demeanor he exhibited during his later guest roles on series such as Murder, She Wrote and Desperate Housewives for fans to recognize.

Can you guess who this actor is?

If you guessed Mike Farrell, you’re spot on! 

The Saint Paul, Minnesota native has enjoyed a long and varied career in Hollywood. 

In the fourth season, I stepped into the role previously held by Wayne Rogers within the M*A*S*H unit. Through my heartfelt and humorous portrayal of the dedicated army doctor, I managed to win over many fans.

The show itself remains one of the most iconic and influential shows in television history.

The show first aired in 1972, and it continued for an impressive 11 seasons until its finale broke records with more than 105 million viewers tuning in from around the globe.

In this ensemble, Alda played Hawkeye Pierce, Wayne Rogers took on the role of Trapper John, Swit portrayed Margaret ‘Hot Lips’ Houlihan, McLean Stevenson was Colonel Henry Blake, Gary Burghoff depicted Radar O’Reilly, Harry Morgan characterized Colonel Sherman T. Potter, David Ogden Stiers brought Major Charles Winchester to life, Jamie Farr embodied Klinger, and William Christopher portrayed Father Mulcahy.

Following the conclusion of MASH in 1983, Farrell continued his acting career by featuring in various productions, one of which was guest appearances on Justice League.

Beyond his on-screen abilities, Farrell was equally proficient off-camera. He was instrumental in producing the 1998 movie, “Patch Adams,” a critical success, which explored the curative potential of humor in the medical field. This film starred Robin Williams.

An ardent advocate, he’s vocal about numerous societal and political matters, with a strong emphasis on human rights and the well-being of animals.

Farrell’s post-M*A*S*H* career also includes a notable role in the legal drama Providence.

He also became the Vice President of the Screen Actors Guild for a time. 

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I myself tied the knot with Judy Hayden back in 1963, a remarkable woman who taught English and Drama at a high school in the beautiful coastal town of Laguna Beach, California.

In 1980, their marriage split apart, and they officially divorced in 1983. They were a pair who had two kids named Michael and Erin before the divorce.

In the year 1984, Farrell experienced love anew as he tied the knot with actress Shelley Fabares, who gained fame for her appearances in The Donna Reed Show and Coach.

The two have remained happily married ever since. 

Reflecting on Today Extra about the profound effect M*A*S*H had on my life, I shared, “There’s no other professional journey that has meant as much to me as that one did.

He went on to say, “No show will ever replicate the unique magic of M*A*S*H.” There simply won’t be another moment quite like that one.

The combination of talent and the writers were just sensational. The production staff was perfect.”

He expressed that nothing about it could have been improved; it was perfect just as it was, and we savored every second of it.

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2025-02-01 18:50

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