Gary Burghoff is an American actor best known for his iconic role as Corporal Walter “Radar” O’Reilly on the popular television series MASH*. His career spans several decades, and over the years, he has built a modest fortune through his acting career, along with other ventures. As of 2025, Gary Burghoff’s estimated net worth is around $6 million, though exact figures can fluctuate depending on the sources.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Gary Burghoff was born on May 24, 1943, in Bristol, Connecticut. His early life was marked by a passion for the arts, and he initially pursued a career in music and theater. He studied at the University of Connecticut and later moved to New York City to hone his craft in acting.
Before landing his breakthrough role in MASH*, Burghoff appeared in various TV shows, stage productions, and films. His early roles were relatively minor, but his big break came in 1972 when he was cast in MASH* as Radar O’Reilly, the lovable and naive clerk at the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War.
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Breakthrough with MASH*
Gary Burghoff’s portrayal of Radar O’Reilly in MASH* became one of the most beloved characters on television. The show was a huge success, running from 1972 to 1983 and earning widespread critical acclaim. Burghoff’s character was a fan favorite, known for his young age, loyalty, and occasional comedic innocence.
His role on MASH* earned him several award nominations, and he won a Golden Globe in 1975 for Best Supporting Actor in a TV Series. Burghoff’s popularity as Radar made him a household name, and the success of the show undoubtedly played a significant role in his overall wealth.
While MASH* became Burghoff’s most iconic role, his tenure on the show was not without challenges. In 1979, he decided to leave the series, citing personal reasons and his desire to avoid being typecast. His departure from the show marked the end of his regular TV career, but the lasting popularity of MASH* ensured that his legacy would endure.
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Other Acting Roles
After leaving MASH*, Gary Burghoff did not return to the limelight with the same level of fame, but he continued acting in various projects. He appeared in a few television films and guest spots on TV shows, though none of them had the same widespread success as his role in MASH*.
One of his more notable post-MASH* appearances was in the 1985 television movie The Secret War of Jackie’s Girls, a film about the experiences of a group of female soldiers during World War II. He also appeared in stage productions, including a run in the Broadway show The Velveteen Rabbit. Despite his fewer on-screen appearances, Burghoff maintained a steady income from his past work and his involvement in new projects.
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Business Ventures and Other Sources of Income
In addition to his acting career, Gary Burghoff has been involved in various business ventures. His main business interest is a line of handcrafted, environmentally friendly products that he has marketed to consumers. These products include wood crafts and other items he has designed and created himself, which reflect his passion for the environment.
Burghoff’s environmentalism and dedication to sustainability have led him to focus on business ventures that align with his personal values. He has designed a line of products that aim to help people live more sustainably, generating additional income for him beyond his acting career.
Moreover, Gary has also been involved in various charitable causes over the years, which has allowed him to build positive relationships and earn respect in the industry. His philanthropic work has enhanced his reputation, even if it did not contribute directly to his wealth.
Personal Life and Lifestyle
Gary Burghoff has lived a relatively private life in comparison to other celebrities. He has been married twice—first to Janet Gayle, with whom he has a daughter, and later to a woman named Elizabeth. Burghoff has kept details of his personal life out of the public eye for the most part, choosing to focus on his family and personal interests rather than his fame.
He has also enjoyed a quieter lifestyle after his acting career, living in a more rural setting away from the constant spotlight of Hollywood. His focus on nature and the environment reflects his personal values, and he has been known to spend much of his time working on his craft and spending time outdoors.
While Burghoff does enjoy the financial rewards of his career, his life post-MASH* seems to be more centered on personal fulfillment and enjoying the fruits of his labor rather than indulging in a lavish lifestyle.
Gary Burghoff’s Net Worth
As of 2025, Gary Burghoff’s net worth is estimated to be around $6 million. While his wealth isn’t as high as some of his co-stars from MASH*, it is still a notable sum for someone who has stepped out of the spotlight. Much of Burghoff’s net worth can be attributed to his time on MASH*, where he earned a substantial salary during its run and later benefitted from royalties and syndication deals. Additionally, his business ventures in handcrafted products and his continued work in small television and stage productions have contributed to his fortune.
Though he has not pursued major acting roles in recent years, Burghoff’s past successes, along with his entrepreneurial efforts, have enabled him to maintain financial stability and a comfortable lifestyle.
Conclusion
Gary Burghoff’s net worth of $6 million is a reflection of his successful career in television, his long-lasting legacy from MASH*, and his subsequent ventures in business and sustainable products. While he may not be as active in Hollywood today, his career and the wealth generated from it have allowed him to live a fulfilling life away from the spotlight. Burghoff’s story is one of modesty, success, and the importance of staying true to one’s personal values.
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