There was a book, a movie, and then of course the landmark television series that made M.A.S.H. a cultural force like few others with 11 seasons and 256 episodes. Set during the Korean War, it channeled the anxiety of the Vietnam era at home and explored the absurdism of war viewed through the staff of the mobile hospital. Now, at the 50th anniversary of M.A.S.H.’s cinematic debut, this special edition of LIFE revisits Hawkeye, Trapper, Radar, Hot Lips, Klinger and the rest of the extraordinary ensemble cast through photos and a lively laugh-out-loud narrative. You’ll go behind the scenes and explore the most memorable moments and episodes, including the two-hour series finale, seen by over 106 million people, remaining the most-watched series finale of all time. PLUS: The making of the iconic theme song, and the show’s enduring legacy.
LIFE MASH
FIRST DO NO HARM • M*A*S*H channeled the anxiety of the Vietnam era and boldly explored the absurdism of war through the hijinks of medics whose mission ran counter to combat.
FROM PAGE TO SCREEN • Before M*A*S*H laid siege to TV, it was a shaggy-dog novel and a ribald hit film that shocked and titillated a war-weary nation. Audiences had never seen anything like it.
M*A*S*H LANDS ON TELEVISION • It was a huge gamble: a pacifistic comedy set amid a traumatic conflict, replete with slapstick, one-liners, and double entendres. Here’s how the series battled the network, exploded conventions, and changed the form forever.
ROLL CALL AT THE 4077TH • The makers of M*A*S*H knew they’d need a large and lively ensemble to hold their own with Hawkeye and Trapper John. These are the ace actors who banded together to become one of television’s most memorable casts.
GOODBYE, FAREWELL, AND AMEN • After 11 sterling seasons, M*A*S*H’s creators and stars grappled with how to properly end an institution. The resulting finale was, to this day, the most-watched TV episode of all time. Here’s how they pulled it off.
LIFE BEYOND THE FINALE • The outstanding work of the M*A*S*H creative corps defined their careers and provided a treasure trove of cherished memories. But they weren’t done just yet—there were still new projects and passions to explore.
