Net Worth Ranker
What Is McLean Stevenson’s Net Worth?
At the time of his death on February 15, 1996, McLean Stevenson had a net worth of $2 million. Adjusting for inflation, this is equivalent to approximately $4 million in today’s dollars (2025). This net worth reflected his career primarily as an actor, with his most notable role being Colonel Henry Blake on the television series “M*A*S*H.” His work on the show, from 1972 to 1975, contributed significantly to his financial standing during that period.
Career Highlights and Earnings
McLean Stevenson’s career began with early work in stand-up comedy and guest appearances on television shows. These early endeavors helped him build connections and hone his craft before landing his breakthrough role on “M*A*S*H” in 1972. While specific salary details from his time on “M*A*S*H” are not publicly available, it’s noted that even Gary Burghoff, who played Radar, was later offered a contract of $4 million per season when he considered leaving in 1979. Although Burghoff declined the offer, it indicates the substantial value placed on the show’s cast members at the time.
Stevenson’s decision to leave “M*A*S*H” after its third season proved to be a turning point in his career. He sought opportunities where he could be the star, but his subsequent projects, such as “The McLean Stevenson Show” and “Hello, Larry,” did not achieve the same level of success. By seasons 9, 10, and 11 of “M*A*S*H,” Alan Alda was earning $300,000 per episode, which amounted to around $6 million per season or approximately $22 million per year when adjusted for inflation to today’s standards. Stevenson, reflecting on his decision in 1990, acknowledged that he might have overestimated the public’s interest in him as an individual performer rather than as his character, Henry Blake.
Post-M*A*S*H Career and Financial Impact
After leaving “M*A*S*H,” McLean Stevenson faced challenges in replicating his earlier success. He starred in several television series that were short-lived, and while he continued to make guest appearances on various shows throughout the 1980s, none of these projects significantly boosted his net worth. His financial standing at the time of his death, $2 million ($4 million adjusted for inflation), reflects a career marked by a major early success followed by less lucrative ventures.
Stevenson’s decision to leave “M*A*S*H” also affected his potential earnings from syndication and residuals. “M*A*S*H” became one of the most popular and highly watched series in television history, with over 100 million people tuning in to watch the show’s finale in February 1983. Had Stevenson remained with the show, he would have likely benefited financially from its continued success and syndication deals.
Despite the lack of specific data on his post-“M*A*S*H” earnings, it’s clear that his career trajectory differed significantly from that of his former castmates who remained with the show. Alan Alda’s substantial salary in the later seasons highlights the financial rewards that Stevenson potentially missed out on by leaving.
Stevenson’s filmography after “M*A*S*H” includes appearances in movies like “The Villain” (1979) and “Dirty Tricks” (1981), but these roles did not significantly contribute to his net worth compared to his early success on television.
McLean Stevenson’s personal life also played a role in his financial management. He was married three times, with his third marriage to Ginny Fosdick lasting from 1980 until his death. While specific details of any divorce settlements or financial arrangements are not publicly available, it’s possible that these events had some impact on his overall net worth.
Property and Assets
Information regarding McLean Stevenson’s specific property holdings and assets is limited. It is known that he lived in Los Angeles during his acting career, but details about his residences, such as addresses or property values, are not publicly accessible. Similarly, information about any other significant assets he may have owned, such as stocks, bonds, or investments, is not available.
Given his career in the entertainment industry, it’s possible that Stevenson owned some luxury items, such as vehicles or personal belongings, but specific details about these assets are not documented in publicly available sources. Without access to his financial records or estate information, it’s challenging to provide a comprehensive overview of his property and assets.
It’s also important to note that the value of any property or assets he may have owned would have fluctuated over time due to market conditions and other economic factors. The $2 million net worth figure represents his estimated financial standing at the time of his death in 1996, but the actual composition of his assets remains largely unknown.
Net Worth Calculations and Considerations
The estimated net worth of $2 million for McLean Stevenson at the time of his death is based on available information about his career earnings, investments, and assets. However, it’s important to acknowledge that this figure is an approximation, as complete financial records are not publicly accessible.
Several factors could have influenced his net worth, including his salary from “M*A*S*H,” earnings from subsequent acting roles, investments in stocks or real estate, and any expenses related to his personal life, such as taxes, divorce settlements, and healthcare costs. Without detailed financial statements, it’s impossible to determine the precise impact of each of these factors.
Additionally, inflation plays a significant role in understanding the value of his net worth over time. The $2 million figure in 1996 is equivalent to approximately $4 million in today’s dollars (2025), which provides a more accurate representation of his financial standing in contemporary terms.
It’s also worth noting that net worth is a dynamic figure that can change over time due to various factors, such as investment returns, changes in property values, and fluctuations in income and expenses. The $2 million figure represents his estimated net worth at a specific point in time (February 15, 1996) and may not reflect his financial standing at other points in his career.
While the available information provides a general overview of McLean Stevenson’s net worth, it’s important to recognize the limitations of relying on publicly accessible data. A more accurate assessment would require access to his financial records and estate information, which are not available to the public.
In conclusion, McLean Stevenson’s estimated net worth of $2 million at the time of his death reflects his career primarily as an actor, with his most notable role being Colonel Henry Blake on “M*A*S*H.” While his decision to leave the show may have limited his potential earnings in the long run, he remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and his legacy continues to be celebrated by fans of “M*A*S*H.”
Personal Life Details
McLean Stevenson was born on November 14, 1927, in Normal, Illinois. He attended Lake Forest Academy and later Northwestern University. Before pursuing acting, Stevenson explored various career paths, including working in insurance, serving in the Navy, and dabbling in politics. This diverse background likely influenced his approach to acting and his ability to connect with audiences.
Stevenson’s personal life included three marriages. He was married to his third wife, Ginny Fosdick, from 1980 until his death in 1996. While details about his previous marriages are not widely available, it’s known that he had children from at least one of his marriages. Information about his children’s names and current whereabouts is not readily accessible in public sources.
In a strange coincidence, Roger Bowen, the actor who portrayed Colonel Henry Blake in the 1970 film “MASH,” died of a heart attack the day after Stevenson’s death. This coincidence added a poignant note to Stevenson’s passing and highlighted the enduring connection between him and the character he played.
Details about Stevenson’s daily life and habits are limited, but it’s known that he was a dedicated actor who took his craft seriously. His decision to leave “M*A*S*H” reflects his ambition to be a leading man and his desire to explore other opportunities. While his subsequent projects did not achieve the same level of success, he remained committed to his career and continued to work in television throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
McLean Stevenson’s death at the age of 68 from a heart attack was a sudden and unexpected loss for his family, friends, and fans. His legacy as Colonel Henry Blake on “M*A*S*H” continues to resonate with audiences, and his contributions to the entertainment industry are remembered fondly.
While information about his personal life and habits is not as extensive as his career highlights, it’s clear that McLean Stevenson was a multifaceted individual who pursued his passions with dedication and determination. His journey from Illinois to Hollywood is a testament to his ambition and his commitment to his craft.
