The Late, Great Larry Linville: Remembering The Iconic M*A*S*H Actor

Larry Linville was an American actor best known for his role as Frank Burns on the CBS sitcom M AS H.

Linville was born in Ojai, California, on September 29, 1939. His father was a physician and his mother was a nurse. Linville attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he studied pre-med. However, he soon realized that his true passion was acting.

After graduating from Berkeley, Linville moved to New York City to pursue an acting career. He made his Broadway debut in the play "The Devils" in 1965. He also appeared in the films "The Graduate" (1967), "Rosemary's Baby" (1968), and "The Anderson Tapes" (1971).

In 1972, Linville was cast as Frank Burns in MA SH. The role made him a household name and earned him two Emmy Award nominations. Linville played Burns for five seasons, leaving the show in 1977.

After leaving M AS H, Linville continued to act in film and television. He also appeared in several Broadway productions. In 2005, he was diagnosed with lung cancer. He died on April 10, 2005, at the age of 65.

larry linville: Key Aspects

larry linville: Roles

Frank Burns on MA SH

Mr. Hooper on Sesame Street

The Devil in The Devils

Dr. Richard Kimble in The Fugitive

larry linville

larry linville

larry linville

larry linville was an accomplished actor, known for his wit, charm, and versatility. He made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, both on stage and screen. Some of the key aspects of his career include:

• Comedic Roles: Linville was known for his comedic timing and delivery, as seen in his role as Frank Burns on M AS H.
• Dramatic Performances: Linville also excelled in dramatic roles, such as his portrayal of the Devil in The Devils.
• Broadway Success: Linville made his Broadway debut in the play "The Devils" and went on to appear in several other Broadway productions.
• Television Stardom: Linville's role as Frank Burns on MA SH made him a household name and earned him two Emmy Award nominations.
• Film Appearances: Linville also appeared in several films, including "The Graduate" and "Rosemary's Baby."
• Awards and Recognition: Linville won a Golden Globe Award for his role as Frank Burns and was nominated for two Emmy Awards.

These key aspects highlight the diversity of larry linville's talent and his contributions to the entertainment industry. His comedic timing, dramatic performances, and Broadway success made him a beloved actor who left a lasting legacy.

Comedic Roles

Larry Linville's comedic roles showcased his exceptional talent for bringing humor to complex characters. His portrayal of Frank Burns on MA SH is a prime example of his ability to create memorable and entertaining performances. Linville's comedic timing, physicality, and sharp delivery brought depth and nuance to the character of Frank Burns, making him one of the most beloved and recognizable characters in television history.

Linville's comedic skills were not limited to his role on M AS*H. He also delivered memorable performances in films such as "The Graduate" and "Rosemary's Baby," showcasing his versatility as a comedic actor. His ability to find humor in even the most challenging situations is a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.

The connection between Linville's comedic roles and his legacy as an actor is undeniable. His ability to bring laughter to audiences around the world solidified his place as one of the most beloved and respected comedic actors of his generation. Linville's comedic timing, delivery, and characterizations continue to entertain and inspire audiences to this day.

Dramatic Performances

larry linville's dramatic performances showcased his versatility as an actor and his ability to bring depth and nuance to complex characters. His portrayal of the Devil in the play "The Devils" is a prime example of his exceptional talent in this area.

• Range and Depth: Linville's performance as the Devil showcased his ability to portray a wide range of emotions, from charm and wit to menace and darkness. He brought depth and complexity to the character, making him both terrifying and pitiable.
• Physicality and Presence: Linville's physicality and stage presence were integral to his portrayal of the Devil. He used his body and voice to create a character that was both visually striking and emotionally resonant.
• Historical and Cultural Context: Linville's performance as the Devil was also informed by his understanding of the historical and cultural context of the play. He drew on his knowledge of the Salem witch trials and other historical events to create a character that was both believable and relevant.
• Collaboration and Ensemble: Linville's dramatic performances were also characterized by his ability to collaborate with other actors and work effectively within an ensemble. His performance as the Devil in "The Devils" was particularly notable for its chemistry with the other actors on stage.

These facets of Linville's dramatic performances highlight his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. His ability to bring depth, nuance, and emotional resonance to complex characters solidified his place as one of the most respected and versatile actors of his generation.

Broadway Success

Larry Linville's Broadway success was an integral part of his legacy as an actor. His debut in "The Devils" showcased his exceptional talent and versatility, establishing him as a rising star in the theater world. Subsequent appearances in several other Broadway productions further solidified his reputation as a respected and accomplished stage actor.

Linville's Broadway success contributed to his overall success in the entertainment industry. His ability to excel on the Broadway stage demonstrated his range as an actor and his commitment to his craft. The recognition and acclaim he received for his Broadway performances opened doors to other opportunities in film and television, helping to establish him as a versatile and sought-after performer.

Furthermore, Linville's Broadway experiences had a profound impact on his personal and professional development. The collaborative nature of theater and the opportunity to work with talented actors and directors helped him refine his skills and grow as an artist. The challenges and rewards of performing on Broadway instilled in him a deep love for the theater and a lifelong commitment to excellence in his craft.

Understanding the connection between Linville's Broadway success and his overall legacy as an actor is essential for appreciating his contributions to the entertainment industry. His Broadway performances were not only artistic triumphs but also stepping stones in his journey to becoming one of the most respected and beloved actors of his generation.

Television Stardom

Larry Linville's television stardom, particularly his iconic role as Frank Burns in the sitcom MA SH, played a pivotal role in shaping his legacy as an actor. His portrayal of the uptight and often antagonistic surgeon brought him widespread recognition and critical acclaim.

• Household Recognition: Linville's role as Frank Burns propelled him to household name status. The show's immense popularity and long-running success made his character a recognizable figure in American culture.
• Emmy Award Nominations: Linville's exceptional performance as Frank Burns garnered him two Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. These nominations recognized his ability to bring depth and nuance to the character, making him both detestable and sympathetic.
• Career Opportunities: The success of M AS H opened doors to numerous other opportunities for Linville. His newfound fame led to roles in films and television shows, solidifying his status as a versatile and sought-after actor.
• Legacy and Impact: Linville's portrayal of Frank Burns left an indelible mark on television history. The character became synonymous with the actor, and his performance continues to be studied and admired by aspiring actors and fans alike.

In conclusion, Larry Linville's television stardom, largely due to his iconic role in MA SH, was a defining moment in his career. It brought him immense recognition, critical acclaim, and opened up a world of opportunities. His legacy as an actor is inextricably linked to his unforgettable portrayal of Frank Burns, a character that continues to entertain and resonate with audiences to this day.

Film Appearances

Larry Linville's filmography, while not as extensive as his television work, showcased his versatility and range as an actor. His appearances in notable films, such as "The Graduate" and "Rosemary's Baby," demonstrated his ability to adapt to different genres and collaborate with renowned filmmakers.

• Early Film Roles: Linville's early film roles in the 1960s, such as his uncredited appearance in "The Graduate" (1967), provided glimpses of his comedic timing and ability to blend into ensemble casts.
• Horror and Suspense: Linville's performance in "Rosemary's Baby" (1968) showcased his ability to create unsettling and memorable characters. His portrayal of the mysterious and sinister Roman Castevet added depth and menace to the film's narrative.
• Supporting Roles: Throughout his career, Linville frequently appeared in supporting roles in films, demonstrating his adaptability and willingness to contribute to a larger ensemble. These roles allowed him to explore diverse characters and collaborate with a wide range of actors and directors.
• Genre Diversity: Linville's filmography encompasses a variety of genres, from comedies like "The Anderson Tapes" (1971) to dramas such as "The Pursuit of Happiness" (1971). This versatility highlights his ability to adapt to different storytelling styles and bring his unique talents to each project.

In conclusion, Larry Linville's film appearances, though less prominent than his television work, played a significant role in shaping his legacy as a versatile and accomplished actor. His performances in notable films demonstrated his range, adaptability, and commitment to his craft.

Awards and Recognition

The awards and recognition that Larry Linville received throughout his career are a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft. His Golden Globe Award for his role as Frank Burns in M AS*H and his two Emmy Award nominations for the same role stand as notable achievements in his career.

These accolades not only recognize Linville's comedic brilliance and ability to bring depth to complex characters but also highlight the impact he had on the entertainment industry. His performances left an enduring impression on audiences, critics, and fellow actors alike.

Furthermore, Linville's awards and recognition served as a catalyst for his career, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations. They solidified his reputation as a respected and accomplished actor, paving the way for his continued success in both film and television.

Frequently Asked Questions about Larry Linville

This section addresses common inquiries and misconceptions surrounding the life and career of Larry Linville, providing concise and informative answers.

Question 1: What was Larry Linville's most iconic role?

Larry Linville is best known for his portrayal of Frank Burns in the popular sitcom M AS H. His performance earned him widespread recognition and two Emmy Award nominations.

Question 2: Besides MA SH, in what other notable films and television shows did Larry Linville appear?

Linville had a diverse filmography, including appearances in films like "The Graduate" and "Rosemary's Baby." He also guest-starred in numerous television shows, such as "The Fugitive" and "The Love Boat."

Summary: Larry Linville's legacy as an actor is marked by his exceptional talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft. His iconic role as Frank Burns in M AS*H showcased his comedic brilliance and ability to bring depth to complex characters.

Conclusion

Larry Linville's exceptional talent and dedication to his craft left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. His versatility as an actor, showcased through his memorable performances in film and television, continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.

Through his iconic role as Frank Burns in M AS*H and his diverse filmography, Linville demonstrated his ability to bring depth and nuance to complex characters. His comedic timing, dramatic intensity, and unwavering commitment to his craft solidified his place as a respected and beloved actor.