Did HARRY MORGAN save MASH?

[@georgesouthwick7000]

The key was that when McLean Stevenson left, those in charge of casting didn’t try to bring in a Henry Blake clone to replace him. They created a character totally different and gave Morgan the freedom to make the commanding officer’s role his own.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

So true, and it worked. I would have hated a clone of Henry.

[@thomasshort1784]

@@stephensundstrom6379 Had that happened, they might as well have brought McLean Stevenson back!

[@JohnClifford4567jwc]

And it ended the plot piece of Major Margaret Houlihan sending reports to various military sources, regarding the 4077. It became clear that anyone who Major Houlihan knew, Colonel Potter knew them, too

[@thomasshort1784]

@@JohnClifford4567jwc I'd say even if he wasn't acquainted with them personally, chances are, he knew HOW to deal with them should the shit hit the fan! I'm saying Potter seemed to be good at reading people.

[@citizenken7069]

They did that with all their cast changes. Whenever a cast member left, they always tried to bring in someone who was completely different. Henry Blake was an inept commander, but Col. Potter was a tried-and-proven leader. Trapper John McIntyre was a philandering playboy, but BJ Hunnicut was a (mostly) faithful husband and family man. Frank Burns was a martinet and a lousy surgeon, but Charles Winchester was a highly skilled surgeon who hated the Army as much as Hawkeye did. These cast changes, in my opinion, added a lot of variety and contributed to the show's longevity.

[@edwarddeguzman3258]

Between him and Winchester they were able to breathe some fresh air into the show and change some dynamics while keeping the core whole

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Agreed! Thanks Ed!

[@docadams7099]

I don't know if Harry Morgan saved M*A*S*H, but I do feel he gave it 100% for 8 seasons. He was a great addition to the cast, and his character of Col. Sherman Potter was fascinating.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Daniel, thanks for sharing your comments! I agree, he definitely gave the role his best.

[@markgolden8710]

Potter, Winchester, and BJ picked the show up

[@joec1576]

I always felt all of the cast additions, BJ, Potter, Winchester, were positive additions to the show. Each were different than their predecessors. They were all great.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

👍

[@toddmccreary4579]

You definitely have to say that there's no way you see MASH going that long without Potter. Some of the best hinged on him. One I liked best was when his last war buddy died and he extended the tradition to the 4077th

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks Todd!

[@kimberlyaikens7642]

I personally disagree, there were so many great characters to hold up the show. But I agree that Potter is one of the best characters on the show, and Morgan is likely the best actor on the show... He is very good, but, Radar is my favourite character and fave actor. I feel Burgoff was the best actor on the show... Also interestingly, he has a problem with his right hand caused by a congenital disorder called Poland's syndrome, which he disguised by carrying a clipboard or having his hand "nervously" in his pocket. I had never realized this until I read it on a MASH trivia. He was so great at becoming that character that you never noticed where his hand was, you were focused on the scene.

[@ronaldshank7589]

Switching McLean Steven's Character, Lt. Col. Henry Blake, for Harry Morgan's Character, Col. Sherman T. Potter, Wayne Rogers Character, Captain John "Trapper" McIntyre, for Mike Farrell's Character, Captain B. J. Hunnicutt, and Larry Linville's Character, Major Frank Burns, with David Ogden Stores Character, Major Charles Emerson Winchester The Third, were the three main character swap-outs , that saved the entire series...at least, in my opinion. Gary Burghoff's Character, Corporal Walter Eugene "Radar" O'Reilly, could have continued, but one, there was definitely tensions between him and at least one other person associated with M*A*S*H. He apparently wanted to leave...so he did. Who steps up to replace him? The most unlikely source of all-Corporal Maxwell Q. "I'll do anything for a Section-8" Klinger!!! The ratings were excellent.. and the finale, entitled "Goodbye, Farewell, Amen", had the highest number of people watching the finale of any popular TV Show ever-with at least 106,000,000+ viewers watching it!

[@TerryMundy]

@@ronaldshank7589 I concur with you regarding the last episode. As I watched I had a lump in my throat through the movie. It was hard knowing that was it. There wouldn't be any more M*A*S*H.

[@shawnmiller4781]

@@ronaldshank7589 Except they originally hired GW Bailey to take over the job Radar did but Alan Alda insisted on Jamie Farr being moved into that role. The part of Sgt. Rizzo was created for GW Bailey as a consolation prize

[@mikeperry6794]

He was incredible. He was strict but cool at the same time. Like the best teacher you ever had.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

That’s a great comparison! Thanks Mike!

[@oilersridersbluejays]

I think he was more of a father figure to the other characters. He was strict but fair, and still could show compassion and humour under the gruff exterior.

[@edwarddeguzman3258]

He knew when to bend and when not to

[@Irisheddy]

It was amazing how when Blake was in charge he was always called "Henry." Whereas when Potter was in charge he was called "Colonel" even by Hawkeye. He was able to grow on the audience and became a strong figure in the mist of chaos.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great catch Irisheddy! I don’t know if I ever noticed that difference, but you are right! Thanks!

[@toddfowler4017]

Respect for the " Full Bird" Col.! Henry was a Lieutenant Col.! Sherm was in his 3rd war, you gotta respect that!

[@Irisheddy]

@@toddfowler4017 Henry was a civilian, Sherman was regular army.

[@toddfowler4017]

@@Irisheddy Yes, Henry was a civilian before he was drafted and became a "reluctant" Lieutenant Col..

[@SiliconBong]

damn nearly shed a tear; you're so right !

[@leslauner5062]

Absolutely, Harry Morgan made that great an impact on the show...it didn't hurt when they got David Ogden Stiers, either.....

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I totally agree! Stiers was a great addition! Thanks Les!

[@Locahaskatexu]

@@stephensundstrom6379 Stiers did more than replace Linville as Burns. If you look at Burns closely, you'll see he's really just a two-bit, three-line part meant to depict an extremely gung-ho idiot, whose ineptitude was raised to just comical heights. I have a feeling if Burns were really as inept as he is depicted, the Army would have actually revoked his medical credentials and medical license, regardless of whether they were chronically short staffed with surgeons. It really does speak to Linville's talent that he was essentially able to turn something a little bit more than a one-liner caricature part into a feasible character, as well as managing to keep that character going for 5 seasons. What Stiers did actually wasn't just introduce a new character, he reintroduced a balance that was absent between BJ, Hawkeye and Burns, and was scarcely there when it was Hawkeye, Trapper and Burns. Winchester was a character that could actually give as good as he got. In terms of intellect, skill and mischievousness he was the equal of Hawkeye and BJ, and in some ways, intellectually he was superior to them. The series from season 6 onwards starts to become interesting because of that in my opinion.

[@tintinaus]

@@Locahaskatexu A few of the best episodes were Winchester ones. The way he way was able to mix aloofness, vulnerability, and compassion really made him a stand-out performer.

[@oilersridersbluejays]

Absolutely, I think with Potter and Winchester, the show went from an overly-zany show (still good though) to a more rounded show where different characteristics complimented each other better. Potter brought the strict but fair career officer side with a fatherly figure who put his staff and patients above everyone else. Winchester brought a dimension of one from a privileged background, more serious but still not a fan of army life. Both characters were more gruff on the exterior, but both held a lot of compassion and care for their fellow staff members and patients. Not knocking Trapper/Burns/Blake, but they were all rather zany and incompetent, which is ok, but when you already have a bumbling cast like Hawkeye and Klinger; the show wasn’t as well rounded until Potter and Winchester came.

[@elainechubb971]

I agree on both those actors/characters. I also think the character of B.J. Hunnicutt was an improvement on Trapper John, who really didn't have much depth as written. B.J. was humorous and had a wicked sense of mischief, but he was also a very sweet guy with a family that he desperately missed. In fact, a lot of characters became more complicated and humanized and less one-note as the show evolved--Margaret Houlihan, for example, Klinger, and Hawkeye. The show started off as farce and became comedy and tragicomedy at times.

[@Maxpower4908]

Col. Potter was great. He is the commanding officer that I remember from when I was a kid. I must have been too young to remember the earlier seasons. The interplay between Radar and Potter was terrific.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Agreed! Thanks for watching my video!

[@chrisallegre2897]

Same, I used to watch this show with my dad as a kid. When I rewatched it a few years ago from the beginning I was surprised to see Blake in charge.

[@CarlB_1962]

“Well, boys, it would be hard to call what we've been through fun, but I'm sure glad we went through it together. You boys always managed to give me a good laugh, right when I needed it most. Never forget the time you dropped Winchester's drawers in the O.R. 'Course I had to pretend I was mad at you but, inside...I was laughin' to beat all Hell.” Harry Morgan’s delivery of these lines in the series finale illustrates the superb acting ability he brought to the show. I don’t know if Harry Morgan saved MASH or not, but I can’t think of many actors capable of making me laugh with the delivery one line, then making me cry with his delivery of the next. Which, for me, was what MASH was all about.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments! Thanks Carl!

[@zapazap]

I'm tearing up reading those lines. Saluting you, Col. Potter.

[@Rainwoman19]

Absolutely, to all you said!

[@unappreciatedtreehouse821]

There can be no doubt Harry Morgan helped MASH through the loss of McLean Stevenson and of course MASH was capable of high drama but Col. Potter became a Truman-esque figure that provided balance to the abundant silliness the show possessed.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

So true! Great comments!

[@stephenconway2468]

There was a change in direction lead by Alan Alda and others. The addition of Potter and Winchester allowed pathos to be added as their predecessors (the characters and not the actors) were too close to slapstick. It made a lot of sense and allowed the show to mature and get longer legs. Harry Morgan was superb in his role. He gave it that core it needed. Unlike Henry, Potter was always respected and loved by all other characters. David Ogden Stiers' portrayal of Winchester was also just perfect. He was bombastic, brilliant doctor and kind (when he allowed it).

[@stephensundstrom6379]

👍

[@rianray7565]

I'm so glad you mentioned his initial cameo as General Steele. That is such a funny episode and how it ends with him doing a musical number during the court marshal for Hawkeye. He must have had such fun filming that episode.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I think you are right! Thanks Rian!

[@rogerlynch5279]

In Germany I have seen this one too. Not so naturally as it seems. The Germans have a bit of problems with the presentation of to MILITARIC roles or movies since World War Two fearing a bsd influence on the youth. So series like RIN TIN TIN, GARRISON´S GORILLAS, CHINA BEACH or COMBAT never were shown on German TV. And the way HOGAN´S HEROS was presented ( EIN KÄFIG VOLLER HELDEN ) blew even the top of the american comedian effects on the show. So the cities were bombed by TOILET PAPER ROLLS in the German translation )

[@rogerlynch5279]

Yes and a special uncomforatlable feeling overcomes Germans by World War II movies about bombarding Germany. So movies like Memphis Bell ( 1990) are not shown pften I got my DVD copy of the modern classic from Great Britain. Guess also comes in, at least for the elders, what the Germans had done to others bombing their cities. The feeling is then comparable to ingrown toenails.

[@philgarza6158]

The fact that Harry Morgan could act seamlessly in both drama's and comedy's said a lot about his skills as an actor.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great point! Thanks Phil!

[@terminat1]

Try "dramas" and "comedies."

[@terminat1]

@@sableonblonde1973 Hardly. Proper punctuation should be appreciated.

[@ronwalker2353]

I'm from the UK and was a big MASH fan. When Stevenson left I wondered how he could be replaced, but when Harry Morgan arrived I couldn't think of a better actor to step in. The character was superb as was Morgan, who had always been one of my favourite actors. In fact, I thought Morgan improved the show

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Ron, thanks for sharing your thoughts! I hope you have a wonderful 2022!

[@davidwalter2002]

There were intelligent choices all along the line, with the replacement of Henry Blake by Colonel Potter, the replacement of Trapper John by BJ Hunnicut, and the replacement of Frank Burns by Charles Emerson Winchester III. Margaret Houlihan became a more three-dimensional character in the middle and later seasons, and with the exit of Radar, Klinger came into his own. He still wanted to get out of the Army, but he showed himself to be a good company clerk and a loyal friend, rather than just that crazy Klinger wearing his dresses. Intelligent choices for all eleven seasons.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

David, thanks for sharing your thoughts! Have a great weekend my friend!

[@edwarddeguzman3258]

I still love the irony of Klinger’s ending, the war ends and he stays behind voluntarily

[@citizenken7069]

@@edwarddeguzman3258 I agree. That was a nice little twist.

[@christopherkraft1327]

Harry Morgan was perfect as Col Potter & he did breath new life into the show!!! Thanks for this look back at MASH!!! 🙂

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks Christopher! Have a great weekend!

[@christopherkraft1327]

@@stephensundstrom6379 thanks, you have a great weekend too Stephen!!! 🤓

[@kathygoodman6159]

There aren't many shows that bring in as many replacements for the original cast - Harry Morgan, Mike Farrell, David Ogden Stiers, Jamie Farr taking over for Radar - where you actually enjoy the show even more. I loved the original cast, but I have to say that these actors were so easy to fall in love with. I cried so hard when the show ended. I felt like I lost my second family. It is still one of my very favorite shows ever. Nothing worth watching on TV today.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Kathy, thanks for sharing your thoughts! I watch an episdoe of MASH nearly every evening. Still one of my favorite shows of all time. Have a great weekend!

[@robing9364]

Klinger only replaced Radar as company clerk, no one could replace Gary Burghoff but Jamie Farr was in most of the episodes even when He wasn't in the opening credits so a regular anyway & His own unique character !!!

[@grantwilliams8164]

He is a great model of a good boss, fair, firm, caring but demanding. He played the part to perfection. As Alda became insufferable the rest of the cast had to pick up a lot to keep the series going

[@stephensundstrom6379]

👍

[@kevinpyne5808]

After Frank Burns left, the show went in a totally different direction. In retrospect, Harry Morgan had a few memorable acting performances that probably extended the series a few more years.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for your comments Kevin!

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Trevor, thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@camswar]

Without Frank Burns , trapper and Blake the show died a slow death thanks to Hawkeye having too much control on the show. Potter was just another puppet to pretend how funny Hawkeye was.

[@Rainwoman19]

imho, I think the show started in that direction with the 1st (or 2nd?) season episode “Sometimes You Hear the Bullet”. imho, Some if the silliest (not dumb-silly, but funny in a silly/madcap way) episodes were before that point. And, as much as I loved (to hate) Frank Burns, I think his departure seemed to help keep the series fresh.

[@scootergeorge7089]

@@Rainwoman19 - I agree. And I do not blame Larry Linville, who played Major Burns. By all the accounts I've read, he was a great actor and a genuinely good person. I blame the writers who created the character. The addition of David Sties and his character brought a degree of freshness to the show.

[@stephenkamens587]

I am a Vietnam Veteran, serving 1967-1969, as a 91B-20 combat medic, Even though I was trained as 91D-20(Operating Room Tech.). I would have Re-Enlisted if Harry Morgan's Col. Potter, was my CO.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Stephen - 1st and foremost, a huge THANK YOU for your service to our country! 2nd, thanks for watching my video and sharing your thoughts!

[@DGolfer60]

The casting of Harry Morgan as Colonel Potter was absolutely inspired; definitely helped redefine the show

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks!

[@stevescholl5479]

I have commented to multiple people as I stream through the series that I am really appreciating the character and deft leadership of Col. Potter. He was regular army, but realized his doctors weren't. He knew how to give a little leash with everyone's hijinx, but shut down any conversation that needed it, either by the tone of his voice or reference to the 'bird' on his shoulder. (Hawkeye: "Why didn't you tell me?" Potter: "When they make you a colonel, they remove the bone that requires you to explain your orders.") He could be one of the guys sharing a drink, a steady leader during a crisis, a collaborative peer in medical discussions, a father figure to everyone other main character at some point or another, and had a folksy was of turning a phrase ("mule fritters!"). He treated people like people, regardless of rank (whether enlisted or brass). And he was an old softy when it came to Mrs. P whom he clearly spent a lifetime honoring and cherishing. He was the leader anyone would want, follow, and respect. His character was very well written and superbly delivered by Harry Morgan.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Steve - great comments and perspective! I really liked Potter as a character as well!

[@madbrowniac7871]

Bar none they had the best Writing Staff anywhere at the time as evidenced by Alumni going on to Write for other Classics like "Taxi" and "Cheers."🤔😉🎤🚖⚾️⌨📺B.W.

[@zapazap]

One thing I can appreciate about Harry Morgan is: there was no sense of him injecting his personal politics unto the show.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

👍

[@patrickradcliffe3837]

While I like Harry Morgan, I think it was more to the writers of show that deserve the credit of keeping it going for as long as they did.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

👍

[@zoperxplex]

I don't know if he saved the show but he did help it remain a top ten Neilsen attraction.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

👍

[@perherbert]

I don't know about saving the show. But to me he did absolutely added to it. In his first scene arriving at the 4077, seing radar sun bathing, is very funny and entertaining. 💕

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I love that scene!

[@macconmara7252]

Harry Morgan definitely helped save MASH. As funny as McLean Stevenson's Henry Blake was the character was not sustainable. I have loved MASH from the very first episode but the earlier seasons could be somewhat buffoonish and the Henry Blake character would have dragged the show down as the series progressed. Colonial Potter was great as he was a career military man and a doctor but he understood the frustrations of the medical staff who were not comfortable with war and military restrictions. To me Harry Morgan brought the "adult in the room" to the show which was necessary for the MASH unit but he did so without restraining their spirit.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments Mac! Thanks!

[@markely7587]

Spot on analysis! Henry Blake’s character wasn’t sustainable.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

👍

[@melissacooper4282]

Now that I think about it MASH probably would've got cancelled a lot sooner if Colonel Potter never came to be.

[@neilsmith4464]

The Henry Blake character, like Klinger, Radar, Margaret, Winchester and Hawkeye, could have evolved over time, if McLean Stevenson had chosen to stay with the show. Although Henry Blake would never reach the maturity of Colonel Potter. Colonel Potter had decades of experience as a soldier and Army officer. He was a military man by choice, and played the role as a knowing father figure, accepting -to a great degree - that almost everyone under his command were reluctant participants. His awareness and flexibility as a leader is shown on multiple occasions through his interactions with the various character personalities.

[@steve2474]

After a certain point, writers run out of new material with the same cast of characters- so some old characters that viewers have come to know and love leave and are replaced with characters that have new and different personalities and backgrounds that can give us fresh new plots and material. I think the key is if there is chemistry between the new characters (and the actors that portray them) and the old characters that remain. In the case of MASH, there clearly was (though Alan Alda did get a bit too preachy in later years). Harry Morgan, Mike Farrell, and David Ogden Stiers were solid replacements and the writers did a fabulous job working them into the fabric of the show. I contrast that with later years with shows like Happy Days, All in the Family, which had become Archie Bunker's Place, and Laverne and Shirley where there was key departures, weak replacements, and various supporting characters that had outstayed their usefulness yet remained, and it seemed like the show was left with a hodgepodge of characters, weak plots and not a lot of chemistry.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments Bxktd! I agree, the later seasons of Happy Days are almost unwatchable, especially after Ron Howard left.

[@hydrolito]

Trapper John Md, was another spinoff of MASH, Happy days also had "Joanie loves Chachi", "Mork and Mindy" and Fonzi and the happy day gang cartoon series as spin offs. All in the family also had The Jeffersons and Maude as spin offs.

[@barbaraacard9729]

I've always thought that MASH and Cheers both were standouts in this area.

[@JanisOBrien-r6l]

Harry Morgan was my favorite character on MASH!❤

[@stephensundstrom6379]

👍

[@georgewaddill7952]

I spent a year in Korea in the Army, stationed near the DMZ. This show is a little special to me because of that. All those changes, Blake leaving, Potter in, Radar's departure, BJ in for Trapper, CEW3rd in for Frank, actually made it more realistic for me, along with already being able to identify with many of the other Army craziness situations. The unit I was in had personnel coming and going all the time. When I had been there about 6 months, I was one of the longer tenured members of the unit. In fact, the 4077th was a very stable outfit. I still watch reruns when I can.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

George, first and foremost, thank you for your service to our country! Second, thanks for watching my video and sharing your thoughts and perspective.

[@jemkey6930]

This is one of the shows grandpa specifically asked for on DVD. I watch it with him on rainy Saturday afternoons. Colonel Potter would often make references and wisdom statements that were very memorable and yes I believe it helped the show stay relevant.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Jem, thanks for sharing your comments! That sounds like some quality time spent with your grandfather.

[@luisbperez368]

I was introduced to MASH in 1982 while attending USCG Electronic Technician School in NYC. The TV was set on the channel that was showing the reruns of MASH. No one was allowed to change the channel, no one. About 50 students would fill the TV room and sit patiently waiting for the two episodes to be broadcast. After that, I got hooked. The good days of comedy with drama. I cannot say that MASH made me better, but it influenced me to hell and back. I just finished watching the series for the fourth time, and I bought the whole collection a few years ago. Every time I watch it, I find things I missed before. I hated when I watched the end of the series, but years later, I understood the meaning of it and my admiration for the writers for bringing that powerful episode. Harry Morgan inspired me to become a better NCO and a better Supervisor in the Marshals Service. Harry, I’ll see you in Valhalla 🍺

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments! Thanks for sharing your experience with the introduction to MASH and your thoughts on the show in general!

[@TracySmith-xy9tq]

My favorite seasons of MASH were the ones with Colonel Potter

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@colleen4ever]

Mine too!

[@oilersridersbluejays]

My personal opinion is that the later MASH episodes with Colonel Potter and Major Winchester were the best of the series. I liked the earlier ones with Trapper/Blake/Burns as well, but they were all similar characters that were bumbling/goofy, etc. With the arrival of Potter and later Winchester, the show became more rounded. Potter brought the strict but fair characteristics into the show, and Winchester added another dimension as being a cultured and refined polar opposite to Hawkeye and Hunnicut’s shenanigans. I think they all complimented each other a lot better.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments CB!

[@elosogonzalez8739]

Harry Morgan was a brilliant actor. He came to M*A*S*H at a transitional time for the series. After McLean Stevenson was written off the series, they needed a new stable character. He made a home at the 4077. I watch it everyday after all these years. All the characters left a life lasting impression on all of us. If there's a better show ever...... I'd like you to tell me what ya think.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments! Thanks Eloso!

[@e.b.1728]

I don't know if Harry Morgan "saved" Mash per se but, considering two major characters left at the same time a strong character actor was needed to fill the void. Harry Morgan was the right choice. Another great video Stephen!

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks E.B.! Have a great weekend!

[@jamesmacfadzean478]

Being MASH fan is a lot like being a Beatles fan. Do you like the early stuff or the later stuff best? For me, it's a bit of both, but I definitely like the Potter years better.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I love the comparison between MASH and The Beatles! I love the whole series as well, but do love the earlier seasons probably a bit more. Thanks for watching my video!

[@oilersridersbluejays]

I think the show was great in its early years but I found it lacking at times. The Potter and Winchester years were much more rounded and made for a much better show IMO.

[@richarddexter7641]

Had MASH continued with McLane Stephenson as Henry and Larry Linville as Frank, I have no doubt that the show would have only lasted another couple of seasons. While the early seasons were entertaining, there wasn't much further the characters could go, so the show would have gone stale. Bringing in Harry Morgan and later David Ogden Stiers were master strokes, as they allowed all the characters on the show to grow and breathe new life into them, while also giving the show the ability to deal with many of the more serious subjects they tackled in later seasons, while still allowing the show to remain a comedy.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments Richard! I totally agree with you.

[@jamescameron2490]

Agreed. The Frank Burns character in particular was very much a one trick pony, with little or no potential for growth. Margaret Houlihan, in comparison, offered more leeway to the writers. They were able to salvage her, in effect, much to the benefit of the show. Also, although not specifically pointed up, both she and Sherman Potter were Regular Army, which allowed her to interact more naturally with him than with the civilian at heart Henry Blake.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Agreed!

[@williampaz2092]

Let us remember as Mike Farrell as B.J. Hunnicutt. He was a brilliant replacement for Trapper John. He was married, a man of strong faith but at the same time fun loving. And an outstanding surgeon. They were able to grow his character in ways that Trapper John could not grow.

[@TheLoyalOfficer]

I don't think he saved it per se but he did a GREAT job with Col. Potter. The switch to him was pretty seamless.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Agreed!

[@TimCarter]

I love the Henry Blake/Trapper John seasons the most. I like Hunnicutt and Potter, but I would have really loved to have seen more seasons of Blake/Trapper.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Me too!

[@caseym5017]

"the Pentagon. Weird looking building. Four walls and a spare. Uncle Sam's monument to Murphy's law." Sherman Potter.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I love it!

[@dirtcop11]

The first time I remember seeing Harry Morgan was in the TV series "December Bride" starring Spring Byington. He played the neighbor, Pete, who always had some fantastic stories about his wife, Gladys. There was a spinoff called "Pete and Gladys." His TV wife was played by Cara Williams. It lasted a couple of seasons. His role as Colonel Potter wound up with him being from Hannibal, MO, my former hometown. When MSASH ended, there was a drive to get Harry Potter to come to Hannibal and be the Grand Marshall of the Tom Sawyer Days. Harry Potter asked for an appearance fee. The tightwads on the city council refused and the matter was dropped. Can you imagine the value the "Welcome Home Colonel Potter" event would have brought to Hannibal? It would have been just after the airing of "Goodbye, Farewell, and Amen." I could imagine that people from all over the country would want to be there to welcome him 'home',

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Huge mistake by short sited City Council members. You’re right, that would have brought in a lot of visitors and been good for tourism.

[@zoperxplex]

"The Ox Bow Incident" was a classic.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

👍

[@joseywales571]

I’d say no but he contributed a great deal to its success. I’d say he was as good and entertaining as McLean Stevenson.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@mattpope1746]

I believe the producers of MASH were smart about how they replaced three key characters and that helped ensure the show’s longevity. In the case of Henry Blake, Trapper John and Frank Burns, they replaced each with a character who would occupy the same space as the outgoing cast member but would bring something new and distinct to the part. While Potter replaced Blake in the role of amiable and approachable commanding officer, Potter was regular army and more capable as a CO than Blake. He was still a good surgeon and palled around with those under his command, but Potter was respected and was not duped or manipulated like Henry often was. BJ took over the part of Hawkeye’s sidekick and second billed star, but unlike the roguish Trapper John, BJ was happily married and a responsible family man, giving a more mature dynamic to the Swamp. Winchester replaced Frank as the antagonist to Hawkeye but unlike Burns, Charles was highly intelligent and a talented surgeon. He was a formidable counter to Hawkeye and not subject to abuse like Frank was.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@oilersridersbluejays]

Yes, and Winchester actually got along alright with Hawkeye and Hunnicut better than Burns did. It was more of a friendly rivalry than outright loathing.

[@williampaz2092]

One more thing about Winchester. In many of his scenes there was no comedy. Instead Major Winchester showed compassion, empathy even heroism. There was a depth to his character that Frank Burns lacked.

[@amsuther]

More reality really. Like any organisation as people go newcomers aren't always going to be the same. I think that contrast helped a lot to keep the show fresh. As you say Matt, each replacement was a total opposite to who they replaced. Even Klinger's taking over the company clerk role, he changed from trying to get section 8 to stepping up to the role...and did it "his way".. and said he would never be like Radar. Something you would see in real life. Made the show more "human" rather than fitting to a script. Harry Morgan was just one of those changes like many had spoken about..part of the transition.

[@Doofus5152]

You're absolutely right! He didn't singlehandedly save the show, but he sure helped a lot! Key decisions regarding new characters saved the show; as you pointed out, the show evolved and matured. A bit less slapstick, a bit more high-brow. Younger, crazier Trapper gets replaced with slightly older, slightly less manic BJ. Childish Frank gets replaced with pompous, arrogant Charles. Henry's successor HAD to be almost a polar opposite to avoid unfair comparisons, so they wisely gave us Sherman Potter; career army, cowboy, fatherly, hard as nails & prickly outside but soft & sweet inside. These choices saved the show. Of course none of this would've mattered without top-notch writing throughout the series run. Great video! Well thought-out and well presented. Not to nit-pick but I think saying that he 'starred' in "Orchestra Wives" is a wee bit of a stretch, though.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thank you for the kind comments, and I’ll take no offense to the critique of my saying he “starred” in Orchestra Wives. 😁

[@janicethompson3028]

I love MASH and still watch reruns. After the show ended, the Swap went on tour and I was fortunate to be able to see it when it was in FL.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks Janice!

[@PittsburghSportsFan43]

Harry was perfect for the Potter role. And yes, I think he did help save it just by being the right guy to take over. And at the right time. Everyone on the show fit their parts so well.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I totally agree! Thanks for sharing your comments!

[@DarthTrader707]

He didn't save MASH (it didn't need saving), but the thing that made MASH so unique, and successful, was that they didn't try to replace characters with the same type of character that left. BJ wasn't another Trapper, and most significantly, Charles wasn't another Burns. And, of course, they went in the biggest new direction when Potter stepped in after Blake died. MASH wouldn't have been the show it was if it didn't evolve and change when characters left. Almost 40 years after it's ending, it's still my favorite show of all time.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

It's also still one of my favorite shows as well. Thanks for sharing your thoughts Sebastian!

[@Xscapeplan01]

Whoever cast him for the role was a genius, Harry played it to perfection!

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I totally agree!

[@patrickdrazen2031]

One of my favorite lines from M*A*S*H was delivered by McLean Stevenson: "All I know is what I learned in command school. Rule number one is: In war, young men die. And rule number two is: Doctors can't change rule number one."

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Such a powerful scene between Blake and Hawkeye! I love that line too!

[@scootergeorge7089]

I believe David Ogden Stiers was every bit as responsible for keeping M*A*S*H ratings high and the show on the air. His character, Charles Emmerson Winchester III was a much needed, as well as believable foil to Hawkeye.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@Summer_Reigns]

I totally agree! He’s a big reason why I watch any episodes after the Larry Gelbart era.

[@silverjohn6037]

I think the decision to add Harry Morgan as Col Potter and David Ogden Stiers as Maj Winchester made a big difference. The early seasons the Hawkeye and Trapper John characters were pretty much given free reign because they never really had good foils to play off of. They were always right and anyone who disagreed with them was automatically wrong. It was like watching them shooting fish in a barrel and, after five seasons, was about as entertaining.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@jdssurf]

Henry was a clown, good guy, funny mostly, and it really just was based on each person’s taste, but Potter was ultimately a class act. We love em all, but Potter hit my heart more.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments!

[@frederickherring4550]

I remember as a kid growing up in Brisbane, I'd seen him before in old black and white films, and of course some colour and I recognised him instantly as a good actor. I do agree, he added a kind of human element, if a little cheeky in it's way. But yes, his experience and dedication to his craft payed big dividends to the show, Loved the show. I always watch the repeats on the box.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@michaelhannah5376]

Although enjoyable before the inclusion of Colonel Potter and Charles Winchester took the whole show up a notch. Colonel Potter and his wisdom abs ability to handle the staff plus the introduction of Winchester, who in many way was a match for BJ and Hawkeye took it too a whole new level.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments! Thanks!

[@bloqk16]

@michael hannah . . . an aspect I loved about Winchester was how relatable he was with people I knew of that worked in the Classical music section of a record store I worked at during the same time: high-browed snobs!

[@oilersridersbluejays]

Absolutely agree.

[@robertkees6048]

My favorite years were the first ones, and my favorite characters left, Trapper John, Henry Blake. But I thought BJ, and Potter were great in their place. They brought their own feel and it fit perfectly. I also love Charles Emerson Winchester III and the way his character evolved from being the new Frank Burns to a human, and eventually one of the crew. Some of my very favorite episodes are the ones where he quietly shows his humanity and you see him inside. And Klinger, a guy wearing a dress to get out of the army, brilliant, what a crazy good idea. Radar had some big shoes to fill and Klinger's stiletto's were the slipper that fit.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments Robert! Thanks for watching my video!

[@l.richmondchilds9548]

Dave Good work, as usual you supply “ Just The Facts Ma’m” ! I saw a documentary on Harry Morgan. His fellow actors all shared funny Stories, humor that Harry brought to HIS View of the world ; And He reLy did Raise Horses,,, Keep on keeping on! Brother...LRC👀🙏😇🤓🤪😇🥸😷🏔🇺🇸

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks Richmond! Have a great weekend!

[@kimberlyaikens7642]

Love this, I grew up watching MASH and I loved Potter. But I was born in 1991, my dad was a big MASH fan so we always had it on during dinner. Suicide is Painless is so nostalgic haha Thanks so much for your videos, subscribed!

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for subscribing!

[@neilsmith4464]

M*A*S*H is arguably the best sitcom ever produced. Wonderfully talented actors -main, supporting and guest cast. It is great to watch the series and see guest actors such as Ron Howard, Patrick Swayze, Leslie Nielsen, Shelley Long, Joe Pantoliano, Laurence Fishburne, Susan Saint James, Pat Morita, and so many others. The stories were always interesting and the writers refrained from falling into what ultimately always becomes a boring, standard, episode template; skillfully weaving together comedic and heart-wrenching story lines. The shows production teams did not shy away from trying new methods of story telling; such as shooting in black and white; interlacing real historical news reels; shooting a full episode from a patient's point of view; depicting a full year in one episode, and others. Bottom line -there was so many positives going on with M*A*S*H for its entire run, keeping it fresh and interesting; there is no way any one person or any one aspect of the show can be credited with the its ultimate success.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Very well thought out comments Neil! Thanks for sharing your thoughts and for watching my video!

[@dhunter1133]

The show overall needed retuning. Blake and Burns had gone as far as they could go as characters, to be replaced by Potter and Winchester, far more complex and interesting characters. Hunneycutt was a step down from Trapper, but it was clear by this point that it was Alan Alda's show, so he needed a more complementary - rather than competing - sidekick. So really, it was all three changes that gave the show its longevity.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments! Thanks!

[@stewartdavies929]

Loved his role as General Steele too. One of my favourite episodes

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@victoriabelveduto3279]

Colonel Potter was like everyone's Dad. I loved him and I do believe he saved the show!!

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@harryhoudini714]

Not just him but B.J. and my favorite Charles Emerson Winchester the 3rd. I am convinced that the show would not have lasted 11 Seasons with the original cast.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@luv2sail66]

I liked all seasons but my favorites were the ones that had Colonel Potter, BJ, and Major Winchester.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@GaryArmstrongmacgh]

MASH makes me think of better times in my country. And I loved all phases of that show!

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I completely understand and relate to your comments! Thanks for watching my video!

[@ac9559]

He did not save it but he kept it going at a high level. Along with the writers. Franks departure started the decline and the writing was terrible the last 3 years or so. Seasons 1-5 are great, 6-7 are good and after that no thanks. Maybe BJ's mustache is to blame.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@Outlaw8908]

When my father had this show on, it was usually later episodes with Harry Morgan as Potter. When I got older and saw the earlier episodes it was like a new show to my much younger self. Now though... you could make the argument that he did in a way save the show.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for sharing your comments!

[@garyshaffer1409]

McLean Stevenson was about my favorite character on M*A*S*H so I took his departure hard. I have a taste for slapstick comedy so maybe that's why I liked him so much. Just looking at his face his expressions was usually enough. He and Radar were a great comedic team. It took me awhile to warm up to the Potter character, and even longer to BJ and Winchester as replacements, but I ended up liking Potter very well. Loved the introduction of Sophie. A great episode that, and a brilliant addition to the csst. Wonder whose idea that was. Entire series is on Hulu and I'm still watching.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I loved McLean Stevenson as well, and totally agree about the interactions between he and Gary Burghoff….they were excellent! Thanks for watching my video and sharing your thoughts!

[@bleeding4721]

Save it? No...Gave it new avenues to explore?..Yes

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Brandi, thanks for sharing your thoughts! Also, thanks for watching my video!

[@skywatcherca]

Morgan DESTROYED MASH! Morgan was not a plus to the show and MASH would have been 1000x better if another actor had been given the nod.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

That's an interesting perspective and not one that I've had many people share, but everybody is entitled to their own opinions. Either way, thanks for watching my video!

[@joelellis7035]

The addition of Sherman Potter marked a definite change in tone for the show. Henry Blake was more collegial with the Hawkeye and Trapper John where it seemed like Blake had little authority over the two. With the replacement of Sherman Potter, there was more of an air of authority. He'd let Hawkeye and B.J. get away with some shenanigans, but he made it clear that there were limits. Also, with the exchange of B.J. (married man devoted to his wife and child) for Trapper John, the show stopped being so hedonistic and became more family friendly.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@robertanderson5092]

MASH started strong but quickly devolved into the Alan Alda show.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Robert!

[@jackvoss5841]

Morgan did a lot to boost up this show. But, in the end, Alda’s ridiculous ego trips into trying to be Grouch Marx, simply became too disappointing. Sad. Courtesy of Half Vast Flying

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Jack!

[@notmyrealname6150]

I always thought the first 3 seasons were the best ones when they had Henry Blake and Trapper John McIntyre.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

They were definitely the funniest!

[@PtolemyJones]

MASH handled cast changes as well as any show and better than most. A mix of intent and happenstance, but the show really improved with the maturation over the years with the shift to Potter and Winchester. I like the whole run, but the changes made for a solid total run.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Ptolemy - Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@johncole015]

MASH Lost the plot after Radar left and Klinger became just another G.I.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

John, thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@anthonyburke5656]

Few people recall Harry Morgan’s first appearance in MASH, where he ended up “retired”, before he was Sherman Potter

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I remember that episode well!

[@rushmore3927]

I love the show, but there's a fine line between serious and pretentious. MASH in the later years crossed over it a few times.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@davidjeffersjeffers7918]

M.A.S.H jumped the shark when Henry and Trapper left. An eleven year series about a three year war? After season three it got way too serious and preachy. Only on American TV.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@figmo397]

Harry Morgan was really good at bringing humor into serious situations. In Dragnet there’d always be a subtle sub-plot about something quirky about Gannon.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@KJTV67]

He saved MASH and Dragnet as well!

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Agreed! Thanks Jerry!

[@williamcunningham4946]

I only watch the episodes with Colonel Potter, they are so much better than the first 3 seasons

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@thomashorsley8485]

He was and will forever be one of the best and lasting characters on M.A.S.H. I could say the same for other characters that came and went along the way. I own the whole DVD box set and still watch it all the time. M A.S.H. is a show that still teaches important lessons that I feel are still very important and revelant to this very day. I think more people should watch it, enjoy it, have some laughs and also learn from it. It will always be my favorite show. 😀

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thomas, thanks for watching my video and sharing your thoughts! It’s definitely one of my favorite shows as well.

[@jehobden]

I've seen Harry Morgan in a 1951 movie called "Boots Malone", where he was billed as "Henry Morgan". He also played Pete Porter in both DECEMBER BRIDE and PETE & GLADYS.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@StumpkillerCP]

Prior to M*A*S*H my favorite Harry Morgan role was Major Pott in "What Did You Do In The War, Daddy" (1966) where he plays a WWII officer who gets lost in the Roman catacombs and loses his mind. He keeps popping up throught the movie as a recurring joke dressed in more and more Roman armor. And is perfect in the role. Just as he was for Col. Sherman Potter. Did he save the franchise? Maybe. He certainly reenforced a recovering cast. I can't imagine a better choice.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments! I’ve never seen “What Did You Do In The War, Daddy?” I’ll have to check that out! Thanks for watching my video!

[@sheldonrobertson8670]

He did make the show have alot of class, the departure of McLean Stevenson and Wayne Rodgers was big shoes to fill, Harry and Mike put the show back on top. I will always be very attached to the first three seasons, great video keep up the good work and.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks Sheldon!

[@davidpickens8800]

I still think that it was a crass move when they killed Henry

[@stephensundstrom6379]

That episode was a heartbreaker with the way it ended. That's for sure! Thanks for watching my video and sharing your thoughts!

[@michaelbaucom4019]

Partially Morgan, partially the writers/producers/Alan Alda changing the tone of the series from being a comedy mixed with a bit of drama to a " dramedy ", then into a drama with comedy mixed in(the years after Gary Burgoff(Radar) left)...MASH had three eras: the first three years, with the original cast, the seasons with Harry Morgan and Mike Farrell(BJ) settling in, and David Ogden Steirs (Winchester) replacing Larry Linville(Major Burns), then the seasons after Burgoff left. The show had to change to stay relevant and fresh, the practical jokes and mocking the military tone of the first three seasons (and the next two seasons to a lesser extent)couldn't have endured without a change of tone in the writing

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments Michael! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@ericbucher8636]

I agree. MASH was one of the few shows that got better the longer it was on the air. I never liked the Burns or Blake characters. They were too over the top.

[@bradlevantis913]

Totally agree with your take. Actually I preferred the show after it went away from the slapstick and became more thought provoking. And I was watching it in grade school. The show was an amazing reflection of the late 70’s and early 80’s angst that kids felt.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks Brad!

[@dgeneeknapp3168]

I loved everything Morgan ever did. I especially loved Col. Potter. Pretty accurate for military medical commanders. Military to a greater extent than the rest of the personnel and still more laid back than most military Commanders. They know you can only expect so much military bearing from doctors, nurses and medics. The attitude of the 4077 wasn't that far off from the military hospital unit I was in during the Desert Storm era. Us in the field was pretty amusing to other squadrons and army personnel that saw us.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

D’Genee - THANK YOU for your service to our country. Additionally, I appreciate your watching my video and sharing your thoughts! Have a great weekend!

[@danielcoburn8635]

I didn't know till recently that there was After Mash, because I was stationed over seas at the time. I really enjoyed what I watched and wish it had continued!

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@HeathNormand]

I think the goofiness of Henry Blake would have gotten old and stale and probably hurt the show and the adding of Winchester was important also

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@johnianson4249]

Once the original cast members left the show went backwards ! Trapper, Frank , Henry . Radar etc . it was hard to accept Harry Morgan after his guest appearnce as a nut job general !

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@Lawrence_L.A._Auble]

He really helped become the foundation for the other actors mainly as the straight man but his delivery of humor would catch me off guard at times and was hilarious.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Great comments and spot on!

[@staciepoole8161]

Harry Morgan as Potter was the reason I love Mash! Him and Mike as BJ were some of my favorite characters on the show. I think both saved the show.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

[@scottgeary6290]

Harry not only knew Glenn Miller, but played his piano player in The Glenn Miller Story with Jimmy Stewart.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

I wasn’t aware of that. Thanks for sharing that additional info!

[@frschoonover1]

IMHO, it was a little bit of both. Harry Morgan was a great actor and he played the role of Colonel Sherman T. Potter as if he was born to play the role. It was genius on the part of those behind the scenes people to cast him as Potter. Potter was much more stricter and more ARMY oriented than Blake was. He took no baloney from anyone and could handle Major Burns and Corporal Klinger better than Blake could, especially when Burns turned Potter into HQ and Potter let him have it by threatening Burns that he would be placed in the midst of the front line if he ever did that again. He made the role of Potter his own. Thanks for making and uploading the video.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

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[@davidbarnett9312]

The show was a must-see for me back in the day. With the change of characters, i.e., Blake, Trapper, and the one who made the show for me Frank Burns, it did change the dynamics. While Harry Morgan had a long career in film, TV, and radio, the show became a bit sappier. Watching the show in numerous reruns, it also became a left-wing preaching vehicle for Alan Alda and company. The only saving grace was the appearance of CIA Colonel Flagg.

[@stephensundstrom6379]

David, thanks for sharing your thoughts!