McLean Stevenson was a talented American actor and comedian, best remembered for his iconic role as Lieutenant Colonel Henry Blake on the hit television series MAS*H. With a knack for blending humor and sincerity, Stevenson became a household name during the 1970s. McLean Stevenson net worth, estimated to be $2 million at the time of his passing in 1996, highlights the enduring impact of his career in entertainment. This comprehensive biography explores his life, career achievements, financial success, and the challenges that shaped his legacy.

Early Life and Education

Birth and Upbringing

Edgar McLean Stevenson Jr. was born on November 14, 1927, in Normal, Illinois. Raised in a family with a rich cultural background, McLean was the great-grandson of William Stevenson, the brother of U.S. Vice President Adlai E. Stevenson. His father, Edgar Stevenson, was a cardiologist, and his sister, Ann Whitney, pursued a career in acting.

Growing up in Normal, Stevenson developed an interest in storytelling and comedy, which eventually inspired him to pursue acting. After completing his early education, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1947 as a hospital corpsman.

Education

After his naval service, Stevenson attended Northwestern University, where he earned a degree in theater arts. During his time at Northwestern, he was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity and worked as an athletic director. His education and initial career choices eventually laid the foundation for his foray into acting.

Career Highlights

Early Career

McLean Stevenson’s career began in the 1960s when he worked as a press secretary for his cousin, Adlai Stevenson II, during two presidential campaigns. Acting, however, remained his passion. After moving to Los Angeles, he trained at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy and eventually transitioned into performing in summer stock productions.

Stevenson’s early acting achievements included appearances on Broadway, as well as writing and performing in popular comedy shows like That Was the Week That Was and The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour.

Breakthrough with MAS*H

Stevenson’s breakthrough role came in 1972 when he was cast as Lt. Colonel Henry Blake in MASH*, a sitcom based on a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War. His portrayal of the affable and well-meaning commanding officer was widely praised, earning him a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1974.

Despite the success of MASH*, Stevenson left the series after its third season to pursue other opportunities. This decision, while bold, was later regarded as one of the biggest missteps of his career. Subsequent roles failed to replicate the critical and commercial success of his work on MASH*.

Post-MAS*H Ventures

After MASH*, Stevenson starred in several sitcoms, including The McLean Stevenson Show, Hello, Larry, and Condo. Unfortunately, these series were short-lived and did not achieve the same level of popularity as his previous work.

Stevenson also made guest appearances on television shows such as The Love Boat, Diff’rent Strokes, and The Golden Girls. His screen credits included roles in films like The Cat from Outer Space alongside his former MASH* co-star Harry Morgan.

Financial Overview and Net Worth

McLean Stevenson net worth, estimated at $2 million at the time of his death, was modest compared to his contemporaries. Many of his earnings stemmed from his role on MASH* and his appearances on related projects. His decision to leave MASH* at the height of its success undoubtedly affected the financial trajectory of his career.

Attribute Details
Full Name Edgar McLean Stevenson Jr.
Date of Birth November 14, 1927
Place of Birth Normal, Illinois, USA
Education Northwestern University
Height 6’2” (1.905 m)
Profession Actor, Comedian
Net Worth $2 million
Key Achievements Golden Globe Award for MASH*
Notable Work MASH*, Hello, Larry, The McLean Stevenson Show

Personal Life and Challenges

Family and Relationships

McLean Stevenson was married three times. He was married to Ginny Fosdick from 1980 until his death in 1996. He had three children and often spoke about the importance of family in his life.

Professional Struggles

Despite his early success, Stevenson faced challenges in maintaining his career momentum after leaving MASH*. Many of his later projects failed to achieve significant acclaim or high viewership ratings. Reflecting on his decision to leave the show, Stevenson admitted it stemmed from a desire to play leading roles but ultimately contributed to a decline in his career.

Legacy and Awards

McLean Stevenson’s role on MASH* remains one of his most enduring contributions to television history. The show became one of the most-watched series in American television, and its finale set records for viewership. Stevenson’s award-winning performance as Lt. Colonel Henry Blake continues to be celebrated as a highlight of his career.

Although his post-MASH* ventures were less successful, his work as a comedic actor and the joy he brought to audiences are remembered fondly.

Summary

McLean Stevenson was a talented actor whose career was defined by his iconic role on MASH*. His passion for storytelling and humor, combined with his dedication to acting, left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. McLean Stevenson net worth, estimated at $2 million, reflects a career filled with both triumphs and challenges. His legacy as Lt. Colonel Henry Blake endures as a testament to his talent and charm.