Gary Burghoff Reflects on Filming His Final Scene in M*A*S*H

Gary Burghoff, best known for his role as Radar in the hit sitcom M*A*S*H, recently shared his experience filming his final scene in the show. In an upcoming special titled M*A*S*H: The Comedy That Changed Television, Burghoff discussed his departure from the series and the challenges he faced during the filming of his character’s farewell episode.

A Dramatic Goodbye

Burghoff recalled filming his final episode titled “Good-Bye Radar: Part 2,” which aired in 1979. In this episode, Radar is granted a hardship discharge following his uncle’s death. During a scene where Radar’s goodbye party is interrupted by wounded soldiers, Burghoff made a creative decision with his character’s emotions. He wanted to showcase a dramatic moment by crying his eyes out and completely falling apart. However, the director advised him to fight back the tears.

Unsatisfied with the outcome, Burghoff requested to reshoot the scene. He admitted that upon reviewing the footage, he realized the director was right and he was wrong. The actor acknowledged his mistake and asked for another chance to deliver the emotional scene.

Leaving M*A*S*H

Burghoff also opened up about his decision to leave the show, which ran on CBS from 1972 to 1983. He explained that his departure was not due to leaving the show voluntarily, but rather because his contract had expired. Burghoff had a seven-year contract with the series, but he chose not to renew it as he wanted to take a step back from everything and focus on personal growth.

M*A*S*H fans can now stream all 11 seasons of the show on Hulu. Additionally, the special M*A*S*H: The Comedy That Changed Television, featuring interviews with other original cast members, will air on January 1st at 8 p.m. ET on Fox.