Share Why Did Larry Leave Mash?

Larry Linville, who played Frank Burns on *M*A*S*H*, left the show after three seasons. He felt he had taken the character as far as he could, and was ready to explore other acting opportunities. This wasn’t because he disliked the role; in fact, he was nominated for an Emmy Award for his portrayal of the pompous, often-unlikeable, but ultimately human, surgeon.

The show’s shift towards more serious storylines in its third season likely contributed to Linville’s decision. As the series tackled heavier themes like war, loss, and the psychological toll of conflict, Frank Burns’s character arc seemed to stagnate. He remained a foil to the main characters, often the butt of jokes, and didn’t evolve in a way that felt satisfying to Linville. He wanted to take on roles that offered more complexity and depth, and he felt that *M*A*S*H* wasn’t providing him with those opportunities.

His departure was amicable, and he maintained a good relationship with the cast and crew. His decision to move on was a professional one, driven by a desire to explore new avenues in his career. He later found success in television and theater, proving that he was able to successfully transition from the popular *M*A*S*H* to other roles.