By Admin 
Introduction
Larry Linville became a household name through his unforgettable portrayal of the pompous Major Frank Burns on the legendary television series MAS*H. While his character may have been the show’s primary antagonist, Linville’s masterful performance earned him both critical acclaim and financial success throughout his career.
Understanding larry linville net worth requires examining his entire career trajectory, from his early theatrical beginnings to his iconic television role and beyond. His financial legacy reflects not only his time on one of television’s most beloved shows but also his diverse work across theater, television, and film.
This comprehensive look at Larry Linville’s net worth explores how his career choices, particularly his decision to leave MAS*H at the height of its popularity, shaped his financial standing and lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Lawrence Lavon Linville was born on September 29, 1939, in Ojai, California. His path to stardom began with a solid educational foundation in the arts. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Linville pursued his passion for acting at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London, England.
This classical training proved invaluable as Linville began building his career in theater. He performed in numerous stage productions, honing the skills that would later make him a television star. His early work included appearances in regional theater productions and small television roles that helped establish his reputation as a serious actor.
Before landing his breakthrough role, Linville appeared in various television series throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. These included guest spots on popular shows like “Bonanza,” “Mannix,” and “The F.B.I.” While these roles didn’t provide significant financial rewards, they built his resume and industry connections that would prove crucial for his future success.
His theatrical background and television experience positioned him perfectly for the role that would define his career and establish his financial foundation.
The MAS*H Years: Career Defining Success
Larry Linville joined the cast of MAS*H in 1972, playing Major Frank Burns, the incompetent and arrogant surgeon who served as a foil to the show’s protagonists. His portrayal of Burns was so convincing that many viewers genuinely disliked the character, testament to Linville’s acting abilities.
During his five seasons on MAS*H (1972-1977), Linville earned a steady salary that formed the foundation of his net worth. While exact salary figures from this period aren’t publicly available, main cast members of successful television shows during the 1970s typically earned substantial amounts, especially as shows gained popularity and entered syndication.
MAS*H became one of the most successful television series in history, and Linville’s role as a main cast member meant he likely participated in some form of profit-sharing or syndication royalties. The show’s continued popularity in reruns would have provided ongoing income throughout his lifetime.
Linville made the surprising decision to leave MAS*H after five seasons, feeling that his character had been fully explored. This choice, while artistically motivated, had significant financial implications, as he walked away from what would have been several more years of steady, high-paying work on television’s top-rated show.
Post-MAS*H Career and Continued Success
After leaving MAS*H, Larry Linville faced the challenge of establishing himself beyond his iconic role. He successfully transitioned to various television projects, demonstrating his versatility as an actor and maintaining his earning potential.
Linville appeared in numerous television movies and guest-starred on popular series including “The Love Boat,” “Fantasy Island,” and “Murder, She Wrote.” These roles provided steady income and kept him visible to audiences, though none matched the financial success of his MAS*H years.
His film work included appearances in movies such as “Earth Girls Are Easy” (1988) and “Rock ‘n’ Roll High School Forever” (1991). While these projects may not have been blockbusters, they contributed to his overall earnings and demonstrated his willingness to take on diverse roles.
Linville also returned to his theater roots, performing in various stage productions. Though theatrical work typically pays less than television and film, it allowed him to showcase his classical training and maintain his artistic credentials.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Linville maintained a steady working schedule that provided consistent income, though he never again reached the financial heights of his MAS*H years.
Estimating Larry Linville’s Net Worth
At the time of his death in 2000, Larry Linville’s net worth was estimated to be approximately $1.5 million to $2 million. This figure reflects his earnings from MAS*H, subsequent television and film work, and ongoing royalties from the show’s syndication.
Several factors contributed to this net worth estimation. His five years as a main cast member on one of television’s most successful shows provided substantial earnings. The ongoing syndication of MAS*H meant continued royalty payments throughout his lifetime, as the show remained popular in reruns worldwide.
His post-MAS*H work, while not as lucrative, provided steady income for over two decades. Television guest appearances, film roles, and theater work all contributed to his financial standing.
It’s important to note that Linville’s net worth might have been significantly higher had he remained with MAS*H for its entire 11-season run. The show’s later seasons were even more successful, and cast members who stayed for the complete run typically earned more substantial long-term financial benefits.
Personal Life and Financial Decisions
Larry Linville’s personal life included five marriages, which likely had financial implications through divorce settlements and alimony payments. His multiple marriages and divorces may have impacted his overall net worth, as such life events often involve significant financial obligations.
Despite these personal challenges, Linville maintained a comfortable lifestyle throughout his career. He owned property and lived well, though he wasn’t known for extravagant spending or flashy displays of wealth.
His decision to leave MAS*H early, while costly financially, reflected his commitment to artistic integrity over purely monetary considerations. This choice characterized much of his career approach, prioritizing creative fulfillment alongside financial success.
Death and Lasting Legacy
Larry Linville passed away on April 10, 2000, at the age of 60, due to complications from pneumonia following lung cancer surgery. His death marked the end of a career that had entertained millions and established him as a television icon.
His legacy extends beyond his net worth to include his contribution to one of television’s greatest series. MAS*H continues to be syndicated worldwide, meaning his performance as Frank Burns continues to generate revenue for his estate and entertain new generations of viewers.
The show’s enduring popularity ensures that Linville’s work remains relevant and financially valuable. His estate likely continues to receive royalty payments from the show’s ongoing syndication and distribution deals.
The Enduring Value of Television Excellence
Larry Linville’s net worth of approximately $1.5 to $2 million at the time of his death represents more than just financial success. It reflects a career built on memorable performances and artistic dedication that continues to resonate with audiences decades after his passing.
His financial legacy demonstrates how a single iconic role can provide long-term financial security through syndication and royalties. While he may have sacrificed potential earnings by leaving MAS*H early, his decision ultimately showcased his integrity as an artist who valued creative fulfillment alongside monetary rewards.
For aspiring actors and entertainment industry professionals, Linville’s career serves as an example of how talent, dedication, and smart career choices can build lasting financial success. His work on MAS*H created a financial foundation that supported him throughout his life and continues to benefit his estate today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Larry Linville’s salary on MAS*H?
While exact salary figures haven’t been publicly disclosed, main cast members of successful 1970s television shows typically earned substantial salaries, especially as shows gained popularity. Linville likely earned a significant amount during his five seasons on the show.
Did Larry Linville receive royalties from MAS*H reruns?
Yes, as a main cast member, Linville likely received ongoing royalty payments from the show’s syndication. MAS*H’s continued popularity in reruns worldwide would have provided steady income throughout his lifetime.
Why did Larry Linville leave MAS*H?
Linville left MAS*H after five seasons because he felt his character Frank Burns had been fully developed and he wanted to avoid being typecast. This artistic decision came at a significant financial cost.
What was Larry Linville’s most profitable role?
His role as Major Frank Burns on MAS*H was undoubtedly his most financially successful, providing both immediate income and long-term royalties from syndication.
How much would Larry Linville be worth if he had stayed on MAS*H?
Had Linville remained for the show’s complete 11-season run, his net worth would likely have been significantly higher, potentially in the $5-10 million range, considering the show’s increased success and syndication value.