Lifestyle

William Christopher, Father Mulcahy, Passed on New Year’s Eve

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At the age of 84, William Christopher, the beloved actor who played Father Mulcahy on “M.A.S.H.”, passed away on December 31st after a very personal battle with lung cancer. Christopher started acting on stage in the 1950’s before becoming a television and film star. Throughout his career, he had recurring roles in “Hogan’s Heroes” and “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.” as well as guest roles on such shows as “The Men From Shiloh,” “The Andy Griffith Show,” and “The Patty Duke Show.”

William Christopher, Father Mulcahey, Passed on New Year’s Eve

Photo: Facebook/Diane McGuire Szymanski

Christopher landed the role he became best known for, as Father Mulcahy on “M.A.S.H.”, in 1972, which lasted the full 11 seasons of the show, after which he continued the character in a short, two-season spinoff entitled “AfterMASH.”

William Christopher, Father Mulcahey, Passed on New Year’s Eve

Photo: Facebook/Kelly Reese

Christopher devoted much of his time to the National Autistic Society, and in 1985, he and his wife Barbara co-authored a book entitled “Mixed Blessings,” which entailed their experiences raising their son Ned, who had autism. He became a strong advocate for the cause and made numerous public service announcements on its behalf. His passing comes exactly one year after that of “M.A.S.H.” co-star, Wayne Rogers, who played “Trapper” John.