“MAS*H,” the iconic television series set during the Korean War, was known for its blend of humor and heartbreak. One of the most shocking and impactful moments in the show’s history was the sudden death of Colonel Henry Blake, played by McLean Stevenson. His demise, delivered in the final moments of the season three finale, left audiences stunned and is still discussed decades later. But why did the writers make such a drastic decision? The answer is multifaceted, involving Stevenson’s desire to leave the show, creative considerations, and the show’s evolving approach to war and its consequences.
McLean Stevenson’s Departure: The Driving Force
The primary reason for Colonel Blake’s death lies with McLean Stevenson himself. After three successful seasons, Stevenson decided to leave “MAS*H” to pursue other opportunities. He felt the need to be a leading man and believed he could find greater success in other projects.
Stevenson was under contract for five seasons, but he was reportedly unhappy with his role and perceived it as being overshadowed by the more flamboyant characters of Hawkeye Pierce (Alan Alda) and Trapper John McIntyre (Wayne Rogers). While the camaraderie on set was strong, Stevenson felt his comedic talents weren’t being fully utilized.
Network executives at CBS were initially reluctant to let Stevenson go, but ultimately, they agreed to release him from his contract. This decision opened the door for the character’s ultimate fate.
Creative Considerations: A Bold Narrative Choice
With Stevenson leaving, the “MAS*H” writers faced a dilemma: how to write out Colonel Blake? They could have simply transferred him to another unit, as they did with Trapper John (though Wayne Rogers also chose to leave the show at the same time as Stevenson). However, the writing team, led by Gene Reynolds and Larry Gelbart, felt that a simple transfer would be a disservice to the character and the show’s overarching themes.
They wanted to make a statement about the realities of war. While “MAS*H” was a comedy, it also dealt with the serious consequences of conflict, and the writers believed that depicting the arbitrary nature of death was crucial. Killing off Colonel Blake would serve as a stark reminder that war isn’t just laughs and pranks; it has real, devastating consequences.
The decision was also intended to shake up the show and prevent it from becoming formulaic. By killing off a major character, the writers demonstrated that no one was safe and that the show was willing to take risks. This bold move helped to solidify “MAS*H”‘s reputation for pushing boundaries and challenging conventional television storytelling.
The Impact of Blake’s Death: A Turning Point for M*A*S*H
The death of Colonel Blake had a profound impact on both the characters within the show and the audience watching at home. It marked a turning point in the series, signaling a shift towards more dramatic and emotionally resonant storylines.
The scene where Radar O’Reilly (Gary Burghoff) announces that Colonel Blake’s plane was shot down over the Sea of Japan remains one of the most memorable and heartbreaking moments in television history. The stunned silence of the characters, followed by their raw grief, was a powerful depiction of the human cost of war.
The loss of Colonel Blake also affected the dynamics of the 4077th. His replacement, Colonel Sherman Potter (Harry Morgan), brought a different leadership style and a new perspective to the unit. Potter’s more experienced and paternal approach helped to fill the void left by Blake’s absence, but the memory of their former commanding officer remained.
The Aftermath: McLean Stevenson’s Career and M*A*S*H’s Continued Success
Unfortunately for McLean Stevenson, his career did not take off as he had hoped after leaving “MAS*H.” He starred in several short-lived sitcoms, none of which achieved the same level of success as his previous role. While he remained a working actor, he never quite escaped the shadow of Colonel Blake.
“MAS*H,” on the other hand, continued to thrive after Stevenson’s departure. The addition of Harry Morgan as Colonel Potter proved to be a masterstroke, and the show continued to evolve and explore complex themes related to war, friendship, and the human condition. The series ran for eleven seasons, becoming one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed television shows of all time.
The decision to kill off Colonel Blake was a risky one, but it ultimately paid off for “MASH.” It served as a powerful reminder of the realities of war, shook up the show’s dynamics, and helped to solidify its legacy as a groundbreaking and unforgettable television series. The character’s death cemented MASH as more than just a comedy.
Did McLean Stevenson Regret Leaving M*A*S*H?
This is a question that has been asked many times over the years. While Stevenson never explicitly stated that he regretted his decision, there are indications that he may have had some second thoughts. His subsequent career struggles certainly suggest that he underestimated the impact of “MAS*H” on his career and overestimated his chances of finding greater success elsewhere.
He did make a guest appearance on MAS*H during its final season, which many considered an olive branch of sorts, though his character was not actually present, appearing only in the imagination of Hawkeye Pierce, who was undergoing psychiatric treatment.
Stevenson’s appearance in the finale, even in this limited capacity, suggests a lingering affection for the show and his former colleagues. It’s impossible to know for sure what he truly felt, but it’s likely that he recognized the significance of “MAS*H” in his life and career, even if he didn’t always express it openly.
The Legacy of Colonel Blake
Despite his relatively short tenure on “MAS*H,” Colonel Henry Blake remains a beloved and memorable character. He was a flawed but well-meaning leader, a skilled surgeon, and a source of comic relief in a stressful environment. His death continues to resonate with viewers, serving as a reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of cherishing the relationships we have.
Colonel Blake’s legacy is intertwined with the show’s overall message of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection in the face of adversity. While his departure was initially shocking and upsetting, it ultimately contributed to the show’s depth and lasting impact.
Why Was Colonel Blake So Important to the Show?
Colonel Blake was more than just a comedic foil. He represented a specific type of leadership, one that was more bumbling and relatable than strictly authoritative. This approach provided a contrast to the grim realities of the war and allowed for moments of levity.
Blake’s character was essential for creating a sense of family within the 4077th. His interactions with Hawkeye, Trapper, and the other staff members highlighted the importance of camaraderie in the face of trauma.
His naivete and occasional incompetence also served as a commentary on the absurdity of war and the often-unqualified individuals who found themselves in positions of power. Colonel Blake’s presence grounded the show in a certain level of realism, even amidst the comedic situations.
The Significance of the Sea of Japan
The choice of the Sea of Japan as the location of Colonel Blake’s plane crash was not accidental. It reinforced the idea of a war zone extending beyond the immediate battlefield. The Sea of Japan, while seemingly distant from the front lines, was still a dangerous area during the Korean War, with the threat of enemy fire and unpredictable weather conditions.
By placing the crash in the Sea of Japan, the writers emphasized that the war’s reach was far and wide, and that even those who were not directly engaged in combat were still at risk. This detail added another layer of tragedy to Colonel Blake’s death, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of war.
The Impact on Alan Alda (Hawkeye Pierce)
Alan Alda, who played Hawkeye Pierce, was deeply affected by McLean Stevenson’s departure and the decision to kill off Colonel Blake. Alda and Stevenson had a close working relationship, and Alda admired Stevenson’s comedic talents.
The loss of Colonel Blake also had a significant impact on Hawkeye’s character development. Hawkeye’s grief and anger over Blake’s death led him to become more introspective and to grapple with the emotional toll of the war. This event marked a turning point for Hawkeye, as he began to confront his own vulnerabilities and to question the nature of conflict. Alda used this real emotion to fuel the further development of his character.
Why was Colonel Blake’s death considered such a controversial decision by the show’s writers?
Killing off Colonel Blake was a deeply controversial decision because he was a central character and a significant source of comedic relief and heart for the show. He represented the bumbling but ultimately well-meaning authority figure that balanced the rebellious antics of Hawkeye and Trapper. His death, delivered abruptly and off-screen, shattered the established tone of M*A*S*H, which had previously mixed humor with the harsh realities of war, but generally avoided such permanent and devastating consequences for its main characters.
The writers were divided on the choice, with some believing it was a necessary jolt to remind viewers of the real human cost of the Korean War. Others felt it was a betrayal of the show’s comedic roots and a manipulation of the audience’s emotions. The decision was also controversial because it occurred as McLean Stevenson, the actor who played Colonel Blake, was leaving the show for other opportunities, leading some to believe his character’s death was a spiteful move by the producers.
What prompted McLean Stevenson to leave M*A*S*H?
McLean Stevenson’s decision to leave M*A*S*H stemmed primarily from his desire to be a leading man. He felt overshadowed by Alan Alda’s Hawkeye Pierce and believed he could find greater success and creative fulfillment by starring in his own sitcom. Despite the show’s immense popularity and the comfortable salary he earned, Stevenson was convinced that he could achieve greater stardom elsewhere.
He reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with his character’s development, feeling that Colonel Blake was not given enough comedic material or dramatic depth. Although he was offered a substantial raise to stay with M*A*S*H, Stevenson remained resolute in his decision to pursue new opportunities. He ultimately left after the third season, paving the way for Colonel Potter to take over as the commanding officer.
Was Colonel Blake’s death planned from the beginning, or was it a last-minute decision?
Colonel Blake’s death was not planned from the beginning of the series. In fact, it was a fairly late-stage decision made in response to McLean Stevenson’s departure. Initially, the writers considered simply writing Colonel Blake out of the show by having him return stateside or transfer to another unit. However, producers Gene Reynolds and Larry Gelbart ultimately decided on the more drastic measure of killing him off.
The decision to kill Colonel Blake was made primarily to underscore the unpredictability and tragedy of war, and to show that even seemingly safe characters were not immune to its devastating effects. It was intended as a powerful statement about the human cost of conflict and a reminder that even in a comedy show set during wartime, the stakes were real.
How did the cast and crew of M*A*S*H react to the decision to kill off Colonel Blake?
The cast and crew of M*A*S*H had mixed reactions to the decision to kill off Colonel Blake. Many were shocked and saddened by the news, as McLean Stevenson was a beloved member of the ensemble. Some felt that killing off such a central character was a betrayal of the show’s established tone, which had previously balanced humor with the realities of war but generally avoided such permanent consequences for its main characters.
Others understood the decision as a bold artistic choice, believing it was a necessary jolt to remind viewers of the true human cost of the Korean War. Alan Alda, in particular, reportedly supported the decision, feeling that it added a layer of depth and realism to the show. Ultimately, the cast and crew were professional and dedicated to their craft, and they worked together to make the episode as impactful as possible.
What was the audience’s reaction to Colonel Blake’s death?
The audience reaction to Colonel Blake’s death was overwhelmingly negative and deeply emotional. Many viewers were shocked and heartbroken by the unexpected loss of a beloved character. The abruptness of the announcement, delivered in a terse message at the end of the season three finale, only amplified the sense of disbelief and grief. Fan mail flooded the studio, expressing anger, sadness, and disappointment.
Some viewers felt betrayed by the show’s writers and producers, accusing them of manipulating the audience’s emotions. Others appreciated the show’s willingness to tackle the harsh realities of war, even if it meant sacrificing a popular character. Despite the controversy, Colonel Blake’s death remains one of the most memorable and impactful moments in M*A*S*H history, sparking discussions about the show’s legacy and its depiction of war.
Did McLean Stevenson regret leaving M*A*S*H after his subsequent career didn’t achieve the hoped-for success?
While McLean Stevenson never explicitly stated that he regretted leaving M*A*S*H, it is widely believed that he did. His subsequent attempts to star in his own sitcoms, such as “The McLean Stevenson Show,” “Hello, Larry,” and “Condo,” all failed to achieve the same level of success as M*A*S*H. These shows were short-lived and generally poorly received by critics and audiences alike.
Despite his efforts to distance himself from Colonel Blake and establish himself as a leading man, Stevenson struggled to escape the shadow of his iconic role. His later career was marked by guest appearances and supporting roles, never quite reaching the heights he had envisioned when he left M*A*S*H. While he maintained a positive public persona, it’s reasonable to infer that he privately harbored some regrets about his decision to leave such a successful and culturally significant show.
How did Colonel Blake’s departure affect the overall tone and direction of M*A*S*H in subsequent seasons?
Colonel Blake’s departure and subsequent death significantly altered the overall tone and direction of M*A*S*H. While the show continued to blend humor with the realities of war, it gradually shifted towards a more dramatic and character-driven approach. The arrival of Colonel Potter, a more paternal and experienced leader, brought a new dynamic to the 4077th. The show became increasingly focused on exploring the emotional and psychological toll of war on its characters.
The writers began to delve deeper into the personal lives of the main characters, examining their struggles with loneliness, PTSD, and the moral ambiguities of war. While the humor remained, it was often tempered by a greater sense of realism and introspection. The show also became more overtly political, addressing issues such as anti-war sentiment and the futility of armed conflict. Colonel Blake’s death served as a turning point, marking a transition from a primarily comedic series to a more complex and nuanced exploration of the human condition in wartime.