The series finale of M*A*S*H, titled "Goodbye, Farewell, And Amen," is known for its tragic moments. Spanning 11 seasons, M*A*S*H is a comedy-drama that depicts the lives of medical professionals at the 4077th "Mobile Army Surgical Hospital" during the Korean War. While the show follows various army surgeons, the central focus is on Captain Benjamin "Hawkeye" Pierce (Alan Alda), who endures numerous hardships in the final episode, including one inspired by real-life events.
Hawkeye's troubles continue even after his return to the 4077 following psychological treatment for a mental breakdown. Amidst enemy fire and B.J.'s departure from the hospital, mirroring Trapper John's exit in season 3, Hawkeye and the rest of the 4077 face immense challenges during the last days of the Korean War. However, it is one particular calamity in "Goodbye, Farewell, And Amen" that stands out, as it is based on a real-life incident, adding an extra layer of significance to the unforgettable finale.
The Fire In MASH's Final Episode Was Real
The fire that devastates the 4077 in the record-breaking finale of M*A*S*H, titled "Goodbye, Farewell, And Amen," appears remarkably authentic for the early 1980s. However, the fire's realism is not a result of impressive special effects. In fact, the forest fire that engulfs M*A*S*H's camp during the show's finale was an actual forest fire that broke out near the set during filming. According to Kellye Nakahara, who played Nurse Kellye, "The fire came down and completely destroyed the set in just 10 minutes" (via The Hollywood Reporter).
After the real-life forest fire had swept through and engulfed M*A*S*H's iconic set, executive producer Burt Metcalfe and series lead Alan Alda personally visited the site to assess the damage. They made the decision to incorporate the real-life fire into the episode, believing it would add another layer to the story of "Goodbye, Farewell, And Amen." This decision was made possible when the network approved an additional half-hour for the finale episode. Rather than posing an insurmountable obstacle, the real-life fire became an integral part of the show.
How MASH Made The Fire A Storyline
Incorporating the real-life forest fire into "Goodbye, Farewell, And Amen" adds an extra layer of intensity to the episode, as the 4077th is forced to evacuate due to the fire's proximity. The fire's presence not only poses a threat to the characters but also symbolizes the end of their chapter at the 4077, making the finale feel even more conclusive.
