The Final Episode of M*A*S*H: A Historic Television Event

On February 28, 1983, the final episode of the television series *M*A*SH aired, marking a significant moment in television history. Titled “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen,” this episode became the most-watched television episode in U.S. history at that time, drawing an audience of approximately 105.9 million viewers.

Background

*M*A*SH was a groundbreaking television series that premiered on CBS on September 17, 1972. The show was set during the Korean War and followed the staff of a mobile army surgical hospital (M*A*S*H) as they dealt with the challenges of war, both medically and personally. Known for its unique blend of comedy and drama, *M*A*SH tackled serious themes such as the horrors of war, the complexities of human relationships, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Final Episode

“Goodbye, Farewell and Amen” was a two-and-a-half-hour episode that served as a fitting conclusion to the series. The episode was co-written by several of the show’s creators, including Alan Alda, who also directed it. It provided closure to the characters’ storylines, addressing their futures as the Korean War came to an end.

Key elements of the episode included:

• Character Resolutions: The episode offered resolutions for the main characters, such as Hawkeye Pierce, B.J. Hunnicutt, Margaret Houlihan, and others, as they prepared to leave the M*A*S*H unit and return to civilian life.
• Emotional Depth: The episode was noted for its emotional depth, capturing the bittersweet nature of saying goodbye to friends and colleagues after enduring the trials of war together.
• Cultural Impact: The episode’s airing was a cultural event, with many Americans gathering to watch it, making it a shared national experience.

Aftermath and Legacy

The success of the final episode of *M*A*SH underscored the show’s impact on American culture and television. It remained the most-watched television broadcast in U.S. history until it was surpassed by the 2010 Super Bowl. The series itself left a lasting legacy, influencing future television shows with its innovative storytelling and character development.

*M*A*SH continues to be celebrated for its ability to address serious issues with humor and humanity, and its final episode remains a benchmark for television finales.