You Won’t Believe Who Tops the List of MH’s 10 Greatest Characters!

by

❗Caution! Major plot reveals await for all seasons of M*A*S*H!

M*A*S*H, a classic TV series that’s left an indelible mark on television history, is known for its memorable characters and witty writing. The show managed to combine humor with high-concept episodes seamlessly, making the storyline richer. The emotional depth and complexity of M*A*S*H‘s narrative were largely achieved through the power of its main characters, and, for the most part, the actors delivered exceptionally well. Many of the beloved characters from the show remained in the main cast until the series finale in its eleventh season.

Remarkably crafted episodes of “M*A*S*H” provide the actors with compelling narratives and character arcs, a mix of emotion and humor that is synonymous with the show. While Hawkeye, portrayed by Alan Alda, undeniably left a lasting impression, it’s essential to acknowledge the strength of the supporting characters as well. The ensemble’s collective chemistry and dynamic are what truly set “M*A*S*H” apart, enabling it to endure over the years and influence numerous contemporary television series.

10. Frank Burns

Played By Larry Linville

Playing Frank was challenging, even for an accomplished comedian like Larry Linville, since Frank frequently served as the straight man and target of jokes. Unlike beloved heroes such as Hawkeye, it’s easy to dislike Frank, yet his role in M*A*S*H is crucial. Despite being less popular and likable among the main characters, he contributed significantly to the series. Regrettably, Frank didn’t make it to the end of the show, leaving after season 5. Though there are many memorable jokes and episodes involving Frank, his character is not as central or well-liked as others.

While he wasn’t universally loved as the main character, it’s undeniable that Larry Linville’s portrayal of Major Frank Burns was pivotal for the success of M*A*S*H. His performance helped establish the series’ tone and made it possible for the show to take flight. Hawkeye and Trapper had a formidable adversary in Frank, one that the audience could easily dislike. In crucial moments, Frank stood his ground, and his stubbornness sometimes led to humorous situations. However, when comparing him to other characters, Frank isn’t generally considered the standout.

Title Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score
M*A*S*H (1972–1983) N/A 89%

9. Sidney Freedman

Played By Allan Arbus

Among the unforgettable recurring characters, Dr. Sidney Freeman, a psychiatrist, leaves a lasting impression whenever he appears at the 4077th camp. Introduced in season 2, Dr. Freeman continues to be a significant presence throughout the entire series. In the final episode of M*A*S*H, Dr. Freeman plays a crucial role by helping Hawkeye delve into his emotional turmoil, enabling him to confront the traumas he’s faced as an army surgeon.

In the TV show M*A*S*H, though the practicalities of medicine dominate the narrative, Sidney serves as a poignant reminder of the psychological impacts of war on all participants. He’s a frank and straightforward character who never shies away from speaking his mind or giving in to manipulations. Although it’s unfortunate that Sidney isn’t featured more often throughout the series, his rare appearances make his actions even more impactful because they are only seen when they truly matter.

8. Sherman T. Potter

Played By Harry Morgan

Just like B.J., Potter joined the M*A*S*H series as a replacement for a cherished character, yet the show skillfully transformed Potter into a well-rounded individual in his own right. From the moment he first appeared on screen, this new commanding officer stood out starkly from Colonel Henry Blake, introducing a fresh tone and marking the beginning of a new era for the series. He was a firm and disciplined leader who didn’t tolerate the antics the characters had grown accustomed to under Henry, instead bringing a sense of order to the unit.

Entering a new role can often be tricky, especially when the previous character has been written out, particularly if they were killed off. Potter proved to be an excellent choice to take on Henry’s part. He offered a distinct personality that prevented constant comparisons to the late commander. While Potter may not possess the immediate charm of Henry or the roguish appeal of his fellow surgeons, he exhibits a strong presence and has some touching, emotionally resonant moments.

7. Father John Mulcahy

Played By William Christopher

In the captivating episodes of M*A*S*H that centered around Father Mulcahy, I’ve always been struck by the intriguing interplay between war and religion. He was more than just a spiritual guide; he was a steadfast presence in the operating room, offering comfort and solace when it was needed most. Initially keeping his distance from the operating theater, Father Mulcahy’s character arc is a crucial element that elevates M*A*S*H to greatness. Many characters were skeptical about religion and reticent to share their deepest thoughts with him. Yet, when they did entrust him with their feelings, the Father consistently offered insightful advice.

Moreover, Father Mulcahy consistently demonstrated his commitment to doing what was morally right, often disregarding the church and military rules. He was deeply empathetic towards the civilians near the unit and frequently expressed anti-war sentiments that were central to M*A*S*H. This aspect of his character contrasted with the numerous humorous scenes he participated in, resulting in a well-rounded personality who was always enjoyable company.

6. Henry Blake

Played By McLean Stevenson

One of M*A*S*H’s most compassionate characters, who also turned out to be one of the saddest, graced our screens for just three seasons. Yet, Henry Blake’s influence lingers profoundly even today, as he was the inaugural commander of the 4077th and a cornerstone of the show’s initial mood. Unlike his strict counterparts Frank and Margaret, Henry was a more laid-back leader who often faced criticism for being too lenient with Hawkeye and Trapper. This soft-spoken demeanor added to his appeal, making his passing in the season 3 finale even more heartbreaking.

Given the nature of the show’s evolution, it was logical for Henry to depart the series since his character originated from the initial version and might have found it challenging to adjust to subsequent episodes. Nevertheless, the episode “Abyssinia, Henry” remains one of M*A*S*H’s most poignant installments, underscoring the show’s capacity for emotional depth. Rewatching episodes that focus heavily on Henry is enjoyable, but it’s evident that his departure from M*A*S*H was necessary for the series to achieve its peak potential.

5. “Trapper” John McIntyre

Played By Wayne Rogers

Wayne Rogers is among the most impactful actors from the hit show “M*A*S*H,” and his departure from the series was one of its most surprising twists. Throughout the first three seasons, Trapper and Hawkeye formed a close friendship, serving as the emotional foundation for the show. Unfortunately, Rogers chose to part ways with the series before the start of season 4, leaving Hawkeye without the chance to bid a proper goodbye to his cherished friend. This decision left some critics and fans feeling that Trapper was portrayed as somewhat of an antagonist due to his untimely exit.

The circumstances surrounding Trapper’s departure and the abruptness of it have sparked debate about his character, given that he didn’t bid farewell. Over time, Trapper has been perceived as more unkind than some other characters on M*A*S*H, although this might be due to a change in tone following Rogers’ departure. Despite the special bond between Trapper and Hawkeye, Trapper wasn’t always an ideal partner for him, even if he was incredibly funny and had excellent chemistry with Alda.

4. Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan

Played By Loretta Swit

In the television show M*A*S*H, there weren’t numerous female characters, but Margaret stood out as a robust, multifaceted role model for her time. Although M*A*S*H could have been more inclusive in its character representation, Margaret is a well-developed character who evolves significantly throughout the series and becomes a competent nurse and soldier. Despite frequently being the straight man to the humor of the rest of the unit, Margaret was a shrewd character who retaliated with her own wit on several occasions.

As a dedicated cinema enthusiast, I must confess that Margaret’s relationship with Frank seemed contrived at times, and it was evidently her growth post-Frank’s exit that solidified this impression. The subsequent seasons saw Margaret blossom into a captivating character, transcending the role of the woman who consistently thwarted Hawkeye’s plans.

Though she was unyielding in her commitment to righteousness and adherence to protocol, Margaret always prioritized the needs of her patients above all else. In times of crisis, she proved to be an indispensable team player.

3. Walter Eugene “Radar” O’Reilly

Played By Gary Burghoff

In the TV show “M*A*S*H,” Radar started off as a secondary character that didn’t get much attention, but eventually became one of the audience’s favorites. He added a lot of compassion and friendliness to the core of the series, helping to keep the other characters grounded when their behavior got too extreme or unkind. Among all the characters, Radar was one of the kindest and most dedicated individuals, always putting in extra effort to be helpful to the unit, particularly working alongside Henry.

In M*A*S*H, Henry’s demise was a significant loss for everyone, yet it struck Radar particularly deeply. This is because Radar and Henry formed an exceptional pair, often compared to Hawkeye and Trapper in terms of camaraderie. Gary Burghoff, the actor who played Radar, brought depth to his role, making his character seem as warm and amiable as Radar in every scene throughout the series. Some of M*A*S*H’s finest episodes highlight how unique Radar is, as other characters come to appreciate him more, though viewers have always been able to see his value clearly.

2. B.J. Hunnicutt

Played By Mike Farrell

While Trapper is commonly known as Hawkeye’s closest ally on M*A*S*H, it’s important to note that B.J., who joined in season 4, surpassed Trapper and emerged as a more significant friend and character in various aspects. B.J., unlike Trapper, presents a stronger counterpoint to Hawkeye, maintaining his seriousness even while engaging in the games and practical jokes at the 4077th. It didn’t take long for B.J. to carve out his own identity and step out from under Trapper’s influence, ultimately playing a crucial role in shaping the characters’ relationships within the show.

In the course of the series, B.J. Hunnicutt skillfully combined his earthy, down-to-earth personality with the exuberance and camaraderie he shared with Hawkeye. This dynamic proved to be beneficial for the show in the long run, as their friendship endured longer than that of Hawkeye and Trapper. B.J.’s arrival on the scene signified a shift within M*A*S*H, as the show began to delve deeper and explore more complex themes. His presence played a significant role in this transformation.

1. Benjamin Franklin “Hawkeye” Pierce

Played By Alan Alda

In the iconic TV series M*A*S*H, it’s undeniable that Hawkeye, played brilliantly by Alan Alda, is the emotional core from the very first episode. Throughout the series, Alda’s portrayal of Hawkeye stands as one of his finest performances, seamlessly combining the character’s humor and endearing charm with the profound explorations of war that are central to M*A*S*H. As the show evolved, Alda took on a larger role behind the scenes, shaping M*A*S*H into the unique blend of drama and comedy we know today.

Through its run, numerous characters appeared and disappeared in M*A*S*H>, but losing Hawkeye would have been a significant blow that the series might have found challenging to overcome. Luckily, he was a mainstay of the show, which contributed to his status as the most memorable character in the narrative. He’s a complex and emotional figure, yet also a character with flaws that the series doesn’t hesitate to portray in a three-dimensional manner. In essence, it’s fair to assert that M*A*S*H wouldn’t exist without Hawkeye.

Read More

2025-05-06 01:30