M*A*S*H: When Television Changed Forever

Matt Roush says...

While it could be argued that All in the Family was also instrumental in changing the tone of network TV comedy in the 1970s, it’s undeniable that the success of M*A*S*H, with its sophisticated blend of cutting-edge comedy and bleeding-heart drama, broke creative ground of its own during 11 seasons on CBS, culminating in one of the most-watched series finales ever. A new documentary celebrates the show’s 50th anniversary this month, with producers, writers and actors (including Mike Farrell and Jamie Farr) reflecting on the risks the show took with its bold content and stylistic experiments (including the black-and-white episode that played like a revealing, emotional newsreel).

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