Gary Burghoff, Actor From MASH Who Played Radar, Rejected Fame To Become A Daddy

One actor from MASH, who was a main character on one of the most popular TV shows ever, opted to spend time being a dad and being with his family instead of pursuing fame and fortune.

Fame and fortune is an end goal for way too many people today. Landing a prime role on a popular television program is one way for actors and actresses to achieve those goals. But fame and lots of money is not the end all be all for everyone, including Gary Burghoff.

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Gary Burghoff, better known to millions as Cp. Walter “Radar” O’Reilly on MASH, did not seek to capitalize financially after the beloved program ended. Instead, Gary chose a different route, one that would allow him to be more present in his family’s life, according to People.

Instead of the typical 16-hour days spent filming the popular shows, Gary picked up work in local theaters and was also a pitchman for BP., the outlet reports.

The Emmy-winning actor also adds that his time on the show did not make him a wealthy man. But that wasn’t what motivated him.

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“I didn’t leave M*A*S*H a wealthy man,” Gary said. “I could have renegotiated my contract, but money wasn’t the most important thing in my life.”

Instead Of Fame And Fortune, Gary Chose Time With His Family

After the show ended, Gary wanted to spend more time with his family, especially after his first marriage ended in divorce. 

“I wanted to pick the number of weeks I’d work and spend the rest of the time with my family,” he said. 

But, as People reports, Gary’s decision to take a less-conventional career route for an actor cost him financially. He said that at one time he was down to his “last $500.”

 But when those financial struggles arrived, and his theater work dried up, Gary turned to the Lord for guidance.

"A little voice said, ‘Paint,”’ he said. 

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That’s exactly what Gary, who up until this point had only painted in passing, began to do. 

Soon enough, Gary’s paintings of animals in North America started selling, some for as much as $25,000, according to People. At the time, People reported that Gary also landed an acting job and began hosting a show about pets on public television.

“You either want to be rich and famous, or you want to be a daddy,” he said. “You can’t do both.” 

Despite any financial hardships Gary might have encountered, we’re sure that he would not change his decision for the world.

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“Like a father has compassion on his children, so Yahweh has compassion for those who fear him.”- Psalm 103:13

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h/t: People

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