'M*A*S*H' writer, producer Larry Gelbart dies
(CNN) -- Writer and producer Larry Gelbart, most known for his work on the hit television series "M*A*S*H," died Friday morning in his Beverly Hills, California, home, his wife said. He was 81.
Gelbart died of cancer, Pat Gelbart said. The family will hold a private memorial service.
Throughout his career, Gelbart developed a portfolio of more than 40 works spanning radio, television, theater and film. His fascination with radio as a child inspired him and influenced his evolving career....
In 1972, Gelbart helped create the Korean War comedy drama "M*A*S*H." The show went on for another 11 years, although Gelbart only wrote and produced "M*A*S*H" for the first four seasons. "M*A*S*H" won 50 awards, including eight Golden Globes.
"M*A*S*H" was so popular it lasted much longer than the Korean War itself, and was seen as a commentary on American involvement in the Vietnam War. Gelbart also was involved in the short-lived sequel, "After MASH."
For Gelbart, "M*A*S*H" mixed a bit of comedy with drama, allowing viewers to connect more with the story.
"I said once that the only way before 'M*A*S*H' you would get any feeling out of your television set is if you touched it while you were wet," Gelbart said.
