The final episode of MAS*H, titled “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen,” aired on February 28, 1983, and clocked in at a substantial 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes), making it one of the longest episodes ever aired on network television. This extended runtime allowed for a poignant and comprehensive conclusion to the beloved series, providing ample time to explore the emotional farewells and individual journeys of its iconic characters.
Deconstructing “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen”: The Anatomy of a Television Landmark
The length of “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen” wasn’t merely a matter of adding extra scenes; it was a deliberate choice made by the show’s creators and writers to give each character a fitting send-off and to explore the profound impact of the Korean War on their lives. Unlike typical sitcoms, MAS*H often grappled with serious themes, and the finale was no exception. The extended runtime provided the necessary space to delve into the characters’ emotional complexities and their individual struggles with leaving the war behind.
The episode is structured as a series of interwoven storylines, each focusing on a different character or group of characters as they navigate the final days of the war and plan their lives after the armistice. This multi-narrative approach, coupled with the show’s signature blend of humor and pathos, contributed to the episode’s emotional resonance and enduring legacy. The length also allowed for slower pacing, allowing viewers to truly connect with the characters’ experiences and appreciate the subtle nuances of their interactions.
The Significance of the Runtime
The length of the finale was a significant factor in its cultural impact. Airing as a standalone television event, “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen” felt more like a movie than a regular episode. This heightened sense of importance, combined with the show’s already massive popularity, contributed to its record-breaking viewership. The extended runtime also allowed for a more comprehensive exploration of the themes of war, loss, and healing, solidifying the episode’s place as a landmark in television history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the MAS*H Finale
Here are some commonly asked questions regarding the final episode of MAS*H, “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen”:
1. How many people watched the MAS*H finale?
The MAS*H finale garnered a staggering 105.97 million viewers in the United States, making it the most-watched single television episode in U.S. history at the time. It held this record for nearly 30 years, until Super Bowl XLIX in 2015.
2. Why was the MAS*H finale so long?
The extended runtime was intended to provide a satisfying and comprehensive conclusion to the series. The writers wanted to give each character a meaningful send-off and explore the emotional impact of the war’s end, which required more time than a typical episode would allow.
3. Where can I watch the MAS*H finale today?
The MAS*H finale, along with the entire series, is available for streaming on platforms such as Hulu and Paramount+. DVD box sets of the complete series are also widely available.
4. Who wrote and directed the MAS*H finale?
The MAS*H finale was co-written by a team of writers including Elias Davis, David Isaacs, Ken Levine, David Pollock, Jim Fritzell, and Everett Greenbaum. It was directed by Alan Alda, who also starred as Hawkeye Pierce.
5. What happened to Hawkeye in the MAS*H finale?
Hawkeye struggles throughout the episode with the trauma of the war, eventually suffering a nervous breakdown. Through therapy, he confronts the repressed memory of witnessing a Korean mother smothering her baby to prevent it from being discovered by enemy soldiers. This revelation allows him to begin healing and ultimately return home.
6. What were some of the key storylines in the MAS*H finale?
Key storylines included: Hawkeye’s mental breakdown and recovery; B.J.’s departure for home; Margaret’s (Hot Lips) romance with a lieutenant colonel; Potter’s struggles with adapting to civilian life; and Klinger’s decision to stay in Korea and marry Soon-Lee.
7. Did the cast of MAS*H know it was the final season when filming?
Yes, the cast was informed that the eleventh season would be the final season. This allowed them to prepare emotionally for the end of the series and contribute to the crafting of a satisfying conclusion.
8. How did the MAS*H finale impact the cast members’ careers?
The success of the MAS*H finale cemented the cast members’ legacies and opened up new opportunities for them in television, film, and theater. Many went on to have successful careers in other projects.
9. Was the MAS*H finale filmed in chronological order?
No, television shows are typically not filmed in chronological order. The scenes are usually filmed based on location and logistical considerations.
10. What was the budget for the MAS*H finale?
While the exact budget is not publicly known, it is safe to assume that the budget for the MAS*H finale was significantly higher than a typical episode due to the extended runtime and the need for elaborate sets and special effects.
11. What is the legacy of the MAS*H finale?
The MAS*H finale remains a landmark achievement in television history. Its record-breaking viewership and emotional depth solidified its place as one of the most memorable and influential series finales ever created. It continues to be studied and appreciated for its portrayal of war, loss, and the human spirit.
12. Was there any controversy surrounding the MAS*H finale?
While the MAS*H finale was overwhelmingly praised, some critics argued that it was overly sentimental and melodramatic. However, the vast majority of viewers found the episode to be a fitting and moving conclusion to the series.
The Enduring Power of a Prolonged Goodbye
The length of “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen” was instrumental in its success and enduring appeal. It allowed the writers to craft a nuanced and emotionally resonant conclusion to the series, giving each character the send-off they deserved and exploring the profound impact of the war on their lives. The episode’s record-breaking viewership and lasting legacy are a testament to the power of a well-crafted and thoughtfully executed goodbye. The extended runtime was not simply a gimmick, but a crucial element in the creation of a television masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences decades later. The finale successfully walked the tightrope between humor and heartbreak, leaving viewers both laughing and crying as they bid farewell to the beloved characters of the 4077th. Its enduring impact confirms its status as a significant cultural touchstone and a benchmark for series finales in television history.