Wayne Rogers, Former “M*A*S*H” Star, Dead at 82

Wayne Rogers, the actor best known for playing Trapper John McIntyre on acclaimed U.S. drama M*A*S*H, has died at the age of 82.

His former publicist told The Hollywood Reporter that Rogers died Thursday of complications of pneumonia. The two played doctors in the TV series about the war in Korea and worked in a “M*A*S*H short for Mobile Army Surgical Hospital unit to save the lives of injured soldiers”. Post M*A*S*H, Rogers featured in major roles in various television shows including City of Angels; House Calls; and Murder, She Wrote. Radar O’Reilly, played by Gary Burghoff, was the one who delivered the news to both the world and the cast, who, other than Alan Alda, only learned of the major plot development as the scene was shot.

He was survived by his second wife Amy Hirsh, children Bill and Laura from his first marriage to actress Mitzi McWhorter and four grandchildren.

Rogers had initially meant to audition for the role of Hawkeye, but ultimately opted to play the sunnier Trapper.

The two starred together on the 1970s series, with Rogers portraying Trapper John McIntyre alongside Alda’s Hawkeye Pierce.

The characters were essentially equals when the show began, but it increasingly focused on Alda, which was a factor in Rogers’ departure.

Rogers went on to become a financial strategist and money manager.

Born in Alabama, Rogers was a Princeton graduate and Navy veteran before finding fame as an actor. He also did some producing, writing and, as a successful investment strategist, served as a panelist on Fox News’ Cashin’ In business analysis program.