Who is Gary Burghoff? Everything You Need To Know

Gary Burghoff, born on May 24, 1943, is an American actor known for his role as Corporal Walter Eugene “Radar” O’Reilly in the popular television series and film adaptation of “MAS*H.” He gained widespread recognition and critical acclaim for his portrayal of Radar, a naïve and endearing army clerk.

However, Gary Burghoff’s career extends beyond his iconic role, and he has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Let’s delve into the life and accomplishments of this talented actor.

Profile summary

Full name	Gary Rich Burghoff
Gender	Male
Date of birth	May 24, 1943
Zodiac sign	Gemini
Place of birth	Bristol, USA
Career	Actor, jazz musician, inventor, wildlife artist, and songwriter
Nationality	American
Ethnicity	White
Father	Rony Burghoff
Mother	Anna Burghoff
Brother	David Burghoff
Marital status	Divorced
Relationship status	Single
Sexuality	Straight
Former spouses	Janet Gayle (1971-1979), Elizabeth Bostrom (1985-2005)
Daughter	Gena Gale Burghoff
Sons	Rodney and Ann Burghoff
Height	5 feet 5.5 inches (1.66 m)
Hair colour	Burnt auburn
Eye colour	Grey
Religion	Christianity
Net worth	$6 million

Early Life and Education:

Gary Burghoff was born in Bristol, Connecticut, and showed an interest in acting from an early age. He attended the University of Iowa, where he studied drama and theater arts. His dedication to his craft led him to participate in various theater productions and sharpen his skills as a performer.

**Breakthrough Role in “MAS*H”:**

In 1970, Gary Burghoff landed the role of Corporal Walter “Radar” O’Reilly in the film adaptation of “MAS*H.” The character, known for his exceptional hearing ability and quirky personality, resonated with audiences, and Burghoff’s portrayal was widely praised.

His performance was so well-received that he was cast in the television series of the same name, which aired from 1972 to 1983. Burghoff’s endearing portrayal earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 1977.

Impact and Legacy:

Gary Burghoff’s portrayal of Radar O’Reilly left an indelible mark on popular culture. His character became an iconic part of the “MAS*H” franchise, and Radar’s signature phrase, “Incoming wounded,” became a catchphrase associated with the show.

Burghoff’s ability to bring humor and humanity to the role contributed to the series’ success and enduring popularity. Even after leaving the show in its eighth season, Burghoff returned for guest appearances, highlighting the lasting impact of his character.

Other Acting Ventures:

While “MAS*H” was undoubtedly Gary Burghoff’s most memorable role, he pursued other acting ventures throughout his career.

He appeared in numerous television shows, including “The Love Boat,” “Fantasy Island,” and “Tales from the Darkside.” Burghoff also showcased his talent on stage, starring in productions such as “Peter Pan” and “The Goodbye People.” Additionally, he contributed to the world of cinema by appearing in films like “B.S. I Love You” and “Small Kill.”

Personal Life and Later Years:

Beyond his acting career, Gary Burghoff’s personal life has seen its share of ups and downs. He was married three times and has two children. In the 1980s, he faced health challenges related to his left hand, which was notably smaller due to a congenital deformity.

This condition was skillfully concealed on screen during his time on “MAS*H.” Burghoff’s unique physical attribute became a trademark of his character and added to the authenticity of his portrayal.

In recent years, Gary Burghoff has maintained a relatively low profile. He has embraced a more private life and focused on his artistic endeavors. Despite his limited on-screen appearances, his contributions to the entertainment industry and his iconic role as Radar O’Reilly continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide.

In conclusion,

Gary Burghoff’s career has been defined by his memorable portrayal of Radar O’Reilly in “MAS*H.” His ability to capture the hearts of audiences through his endearing and humorous performance has solidified his place in television history.