Gary Burghoff is best remembered as the beloved and quirky Radar O’Reilly from the iconic television series MASH*. A man of quiet charisma and remarkable talent, Burghoff captivated audiences not only with his performance but with his authenticity. As years passed, many fans have become curious about the financial legacy left behind by this humble television icon. In this article, we dive deep into Gary Burghoff’s net worth, his career journey, personal life, and the quiet lifestyle he has maintained beyond the spotlight.
Quick Bio Table – Gary Burghoff
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Age | 81 (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) |
| Net Worth | $6 million (estimated) |
| Family | Married, 3 children |
| Nationality | American |
| Physical Appearance | Short stature, glasses, warm smile |
| Social Media Handles | Not publicly active |
| Profession | Actor, musician, artist |
| Relationship Status | Married to Elisabeth Bostrom (divorced) |
| Lifestyle | Private, nature-loving, artistic |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Gary Rich Burghoff was born on May 24, 1943, in Bristol, Connecticut. Raised in a modest household, he displayed an artistic flair from an early age. Interestingly, he was born with a congenital deformity of three fingers on his left hand, which he skillfully hid on screen throughout his acting career. Before his breakthrough in television, Burghoff was a skilled jazz drummer and an accomplished painter.
His early professional years were rooted in theater and music. He performed as Charlie Brown in the off-Broadway production You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, which would serve as the springboard into a more prominent career in entertainment.
The Breakthrough Role: Radar O’Reilly
Burghoff’s big break came when he was cast as Corporal Walter “Radar” O’Reilly in the 1970 film MASH*, directed by Robert Altman. He was the only actor from the film to reprise his role in the television series adaptation that began in 1972.
Radar became a cultural touchstone—a kind-hearted, radar-eared company clerk who embodied innocence and intuition. His performance on MASH* earned him six Emmy nominations, eventually winning the award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series in 1977.
This role significantly contributed to Gary Burghoff’s net worth, both through salary and syndication royalties.
Earnings from MAS*H and Later Royalties
During the peak years of MASH*, Burghoff was earning approximately $20,000 to $25,000 per episode—a considerable amount at the time. Although he left the series in its seventh season to spend more time with his family, he continued to receive royalties due to his contribution to one of the most syndicated shows in television history.
To this day, MASH* reruns across the globe continue to contribute residuals to the former cast, helping bolster Gary Burghoff’s net worth long after his exit from Hollywood.
Life After MAS*H: A Quieter Path
After MASH*, Gary Burghoff mostly stepped away from mainstream entertainment. He did reappear occasionally in TV movies such as WALTER* (a Radar-centered spin-off), but the projects didn’t gain traction.
Rather than chasing the spotlight, Burghoff chose a more introspective and meaningful life. He spent more time with his family and dedicated his energy to nature, wildlife, painting, and his passion for fishing. His nature-oriented lifestyle kept him grounded and gave him immense personal satisfaction.
He also became an inventor—holding patents for a toilet seat lifting device and fishing tackle-related inventions. These ventures, although not headline-making, added a unique layer to his personal income streams.
Art, Music, and Other Talents
Burghoff’s life wasn’t defined by a single profession. Apart from acting, he is a respected wildlife painter, with his work featured in several art galleries. He’s also a seasoned jazz drummer, having once played with legends such as Liza Minnelli and the Las Vegas showband scene.
While these artistic pursuits didn’t contribute the same financial weight as his acting career, they shaped the full picture of his creative personality—and further justified the diversified streams behind Gary Burghoff’s net worth.
Family, Relationships, and Personal Values
Gary Burghoff married Elisabeth Bostrom in 1971. They had two children before eventually divorcing. He also has a child from a previous relationship. Despite fame and fortune, Burghoff consistently prioritized his role as a father and maintained a low profile, rarely speaking publicly about his personal life.
This devotion to his children and preference for a serene home life is often cited as the reason for his departure from MASH*, a rare move for an actor at the height of popularity. His decision to walk away from a high-paying and high-profile role reflected not only on his values—but also his financial stability at the time.
How Much is Gary Burghoff Worth Today?
As of 2025, Gary Burghoff’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. While this figure might not compare to today’s mega-celebrities, it reflects a well-managed financial life rooted in classic Hollywood and diversified by art, music, royalties, and modest entrepreneurial ventures.
It’s worth noting that his earnings were accumulated over a time when celebrity paychecks were not bloated by digital endorsements or brand sponsorships. His net worth represents long-term value from consistent, quality work and sound personal choices.
Gary Burghoff’s Legacy and Influence
Though not frequently in the limelight anymore, Gary Burghoff’s legacy remains strong. His portrayal of Radar O’Reilly continues to be beloved by millions across generations. More than just a funny, lovable clerk, Radar symbolized hope, kindness, and empathy during a chaotic time—both on the show and in the real world.
In a world where many chase fame and fortune relentlessly, Burghoff’s decision to step back and live meaningfully adds depth to his story—and provides an alternative example of what a successful life can look like.
FAQs About Gary Burghoff
Q1: Why did Gary Burghoff leave MAS*H?
He left MASH* to spend more time with his family and children. He prioritized personal well-being over fame, which he later said brought him peace.
Q2: Is Gary Burghoff still alive?
Yes, as of 2025, Gary Burghoff is alive and in his early 80s. He lives a quiet life, mostly out of the public eye.
Q3: What does Gary Burghoff do now?
He’s focused on painting, nature, and enjoying his retirement. He occasionally appears at conventions or interviews related to MASH*.
Q4: How did Gary Burghoff make his money?
Primarily from acting in MASH*, royalties, a few inventions, and sales of his wildlife paintings.
Q5: Is Gary Burghoff active on social media?
No, he maintains a private life and does not appear to use public social media platforms.
Final Thoughts
Gary Burghoff’s net worth reflects a life well-lived—defined not by glitz or extravagance, but by integrity, passion, and timeless talent. He may not be front and center in the media today, but the legacy he built with grace and sincerity continues to live on in reruns, fan hearts, and classic television history.