A Celebration of a Television Icon

On January 1, 2024, Fox aired a highly anticipated two-hour special titled "M*A*S*H: The Comedy That Changed Television." This special event celebrated one of television's most beloved and enduring sitcoms, bringing together the surviving cast members for new interviews, behind-the-scenes stories, and rare footage that fans had eagerly awaited.

Star-Studded Reunion

The special featured interviews with iconic cast members including Alan Alda (Hawkeye Pierce), Gary Burghoff (Radar O'Reilly), Jamie Farr (Max Klinger), Mike Farrell (B.

J. Hunnicutt), and Loretta Swit (Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan). Executive producers Gene Reynolds and Burt Metcalfe also shared their insights, creating a rich tapestry of memories and reflections on the show's impact and legacy​​​​.

Never-Before-Seen Footage

In addition to the new interviews, the special included a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes footage and archival interviews with cast members who have passed away, such as Harry Morgan (Col. Sherman Potter) and David Ogden Stiers (Maj. Charles Winchester).

This content offered fans a unique glimpse into the making of M*A*S*H and the personalities that brought the 4077th to life​​.

A Cultural Phenomenon

M*A*S*H is more than just a TV show; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The series finale, which aired in 1983, remains the highest-rated telecast in television history. Dan Harrison, Fox's EVP of Program Planning & Content Strategy, noted, "M*A*S*H comedically captures the 4077th medical corps and how they managed to maintain their sanity while saving lives on the front lines of the Korean War.

It’s a timeless show, and Fox is proud to celebrate its landmark achievements"​​​​.

Fan Reactions and Nostalgia

Fans were buzzing about the reunion special. Loretta Swit, during a recent interview, shared touching stories about how the show had impacted viewers' lives. "One fan told me how M*A*S*H literally changed his life," she said, highlighting the show's enduring emotional resonance. This special brought back a flood of memories for long-time fans while introducing the magic of M*A*S*H to a new generation​​.

Streaming and Availability

For those who missed the live airing, "M*A*S*H: The Comedy That Changed Television" is available for streaming on Hulu and other platforms. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering M*A*S*H for the first time, this reunion special offers a heartwarming and nostalgic journey through one of television’s greatest series​​​​.