Gary Burghoff: Radar Actor, Inventor, and His Life Today

Few actors become so tied to a single character that the person behind the role feels like a mystery. Gary Burghoff, who brought Radar O’Reilly to life on M*A*S*H, is one of those rare cases. He walked away from television’s biggest show at its peak, traded the soundstage for a paintbrush and a workbench, and quietly built a second act as an inventor and wildlife painter. This article pieces together the full picture—from his on-set relationships to the hand he rarely showed on camera and the patents he filed after the credits rolled.

Born: May 24, 1943 ·
Role: Radar O’Reilly on M*A*S*H ·
Disability: Missing finger on left hand ·
Alive: Yes (as of 2025)

Six key facts, one pattern: Burghoff’s life divides cleanly into two acts—the Hollywood decade and the quieter decades that followed, each defined by different skills.

The table below captures the essentials of who he is and what he did.

Do Alan Alda and Gary Burghoff get along?

The short answer is yes. Burghoff and Alda maintained a professional, friendly relationship during the seven seasons they worked together. Alda, the show’s star and later director, has publicly described Burghoff as a talented actor. Burghoff’s departure from M*A*S*H in 1979 was driven by his desire to spend more time with his family and pursue other interests, not by any personal rift with Alda. Wikipedia notes that Burghoff left the series after seven seasons, a decision that was amicable.

The implication: the on-set relationships on M*A*S*H were more complex than the simple “feud” narrative that fans sometimes assume. Burghoff’s closest bond was with another cast member.

Did Larry Linville and Gary Burghoff get along?

• Linville and Burghoff were close friends on set, according to interviews (MeTV)
• Linville, who played Frank Burns, often socialized with Burghoff between takes

Larry Linville considered Burghoff a close friend. The two actors shared a camaraderie that contrasted with the antagonistic relationship their characters had on screen.

Who did Alan Alda not get along with on MASH?

While Alda and Burghoff were fine, Alda had tensions with some other cast members. Reports indicate that Alda’s growing creative control occasionally clashed with co-stars like Larry Linville, but Burghoff was never part of those dynamics. MeTV notes that cast relationships were generally professional, with Burghoff remaining on good terms with everyone.

Did Harry Morgan like Alan Alda?

Harry Morgan, who joined the cast later as Colonel Potter, had a positive working relationship with Alda. Morgan and Alda shared a mutual respect that helped anchor the show’s later seasons. Burghoff had already left before Morgan became a regular, so their paths barely crossed.

Did Gary Burghoff have a disability?

Yes. Burghoff was born with brachydactyly associated with Poland syndrome, a condition that left his left hand with three fingers significantly smaller than those on his right hand. Wikipedia confirms the congenital condition. He often concealed his hand during filming, but it occasionally appeared on screen—most notably in scenes where Radar’s hand is visible holding a clipboard or a coffee cup.

What happened to Gary Burghoff’s hand?

• Brachydactyly from Poland syndrome; missing finger and shortened fingers on left hand
• Burghoff developed ways to work around it: he learned tap dance and became a drummer
• The disability informed his character: Radar’s awkward, endearing mannerisms were partly Burghoff’s own adaptations

Burghoff has said that his hand difference made him feel set apart as a child, but it also gave him a unique perspective that he channeled into his art. MeTV reports that he hated being called “cute” as a result of his disability, but he turned it into a strength on screen.

What is Gary Burghoff doing now?

Burghoff retired from acting in the 1990s and now focuses on painting, music, and inventing. He resides in California, where he maintains a studio for his wildlife art. The MASH Historian notes that his paintings became popular in the 1990s and early 2000s. He is also a professional jazz drummer—he leads the trio The We Three, performing at clubs and events. LifeChums describes his drumming career.

Where is Gary Burghoff now?

• Lives in California (specific town not publicly confirmed)
• Previously lived in Connecticut in 2004

Is Gary Burghoff still alive?

Yes, as of 2025, Gary Burghoff is alive and remains active. He continues to paint wildlife scenes and occasionally gives interviews about his M*A*S*H days. The Television Academy conducted an extensive interview with him, preserving his memories for the historical record.

The trade-off: Burghoff chose a quiet, fulfilling life over the relentless spotlight. He traded fame for creative freedom, and from the evidence of his art and inventions, he made the right call.

What movies and TV shows did Gary Burghoff appear in?

Burghoff’s filmography is short but iconic. His most famous role is Corporal Walter “Radar” O’Reilly, which he played in the 1970 film M*A*S*H and then in the television series from 1972 to 1979. Wikipedia lists his credits, which include guest appearances on The Love Boat, Fantasy Island, and B.L. Stryker. He also originated the role of Charlie Brown in the 1967 off-Broadway musical You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.

What is Gary Burghoff’s most famous role?

• Radar O’Reilly in M*A*S*H (1970 film and 1972–1979 TV series)
• He won an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 1977
• He also appeared in the TV movie The Love Boat: The Valentine Voyage (1984) (Fandom)

Burghoff’s Radar was the heart of the 4077th—a character so beloved that the show never quite felt the same after he left. The Atlantic notes that his departure marked a turning point for the series.

The catch: Burghoff’s filmography is thin because he chose to leave at the height of his fame. He had no interest in being typecast, and he had other passions pulling him away.

Is Gary Burghoff an inventor?

Yes. Burghoff holds several patents. The Atlantic describes one of his inventions as “Chum Magic,” a device that attracts fish to boats. He also invented a toilet seat handle and a specialized camera mount for wildlife photography. His entrepreneurial ventures include selling his own artwork and licensing his inventions.

What did Gary Burghoff invent?

• Chum Magic – a fishing bait dispenser
• Toilet seat handle – a practical hygiene aid
• Camera mount for wildlife photography

Burghoff’s inventing is a natural extension of his curiosity. He once said, “I paint what I love, which is North American wildlife and my children, in the environment that they live in.” The MASH Historian quotes him. His inventions reflect the same thoughtful, hands-on approach he brought to his acting.