Alan Alda Celebrates 89th Birthday, Reflects on Iconic ‘M*A*S*H’ Legacy

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Alan Alda, the beloved actor best known for his role as Hawkeye Pierce in the iconic TV series “M*A*S*H,” celebrated his 89th birthday on January 28, 2025. Alda, whose career spans over six decades, remains a cultural icon, with his portrayal of the wise-cracking surgeon still resonating with audiences worldwide.

Born on January 28, 1936, Alda’s career began in the early 1960s and has included a wide range of roles in film, television, and theater. He earned an Oscar nomination for his role in “The Aviator” and continued to act well into his 80s, with a notable appearance in the 2022 series “The Good Fight.” However, it is his role in “M*A*S*H” that has cemented his place in television history.

“M*A*S*H,” which aired from 1972 to 1983, was adapted from a 1970 film and became one of the most successful TV shows of all time. The series was nominated for over 100 Emmy Awards, winning 14, including two Best Actor awards for Alda. The show’s finale, broadcast on February 28, 1983, remains the most-watched single television episode in history, with 121.6 million viewers tuning in.

“It’s incredible to think about the impact ‘M*A*S*H’ had on people,” Alda said in a recent interview. “The show wasn’t just about comedy; it was about humanity, about finding light in the darkest of times.”

Following the end of “M*A*S*H,” Alda continued to act, write, and direct, earning acclaim for his work both on and off the screen. He also became a prominent advocate for science communication, hosting the PBS series “Scientific American Frontiers” and founding the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University.

As Alda celebrates his 89th birthday, fans and colleagues alike reflect on his enduring legacy. “Alan is a true legend,” said fellow actor and friend Tom Hanks. “His work on ‘M*A*S*H’ changed television forever, and his dedication to science communication has inspired countless others.”

Other celebrities celebrating birthdays on January 28 include singer Sarah McLachlan, who turns 57, and rapper J. Cole, who turns 40. Each has made significant contributions to their respective fields, but it is Alda’s remarkable career and lasting impact that continue to capture the public’s imagination.