Remembering Eileen Saki: Rosie of M*A*S*H (1943–2023)

For fans of M*A*S*H, the 4077th wasn't complete without a stop at Rosie's Bar. The doctors and nurses went there to blow off steam, settle arguments and forget the war for a few minutes, and behind the bar was Rosie herself, unflappable and quick with a comeback. Eileen Saki, the actress who brought Rosie to life, died on May 1, 2023, in Los Angeles. She was 79.

From Japan to Hollywood

Born in Japan in 1943, Saki grew up in a family that valued the arts. Her father, a gardener, saved his money so she could take singing and dancing lessons, an investment that eventually led her to a career in entertainment in the United States.

Welcome to Rosie's Bar

Saki joined M*A*S*H during its fifth season, taking over the role of Rosie from actress Frances Fong. Rosie's Bar was one of the show's most familiar sets, a cozy, crowded hangout that gave the series some of its funniest and most human scenes. It was the place where Hawkeye, B.J., Klinger and the rest of the 4077th went to unwind. Saki appeared as Rosie in eight episodes and stayed with the role until the series ended in 1983. The show's final episode, "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen," became the most-watched scripted broadcast in American television history, with more than 100 million viewers.

A Busy Career

Beyond M*A*S*H, Saki built a long list of film and TV credits. She appeared in Mel Brooks' History of the World, Part I and Ron Howard's mermaid comedy Splash, and turned up on popular series including Good Times, The Greatest American Hero, Gimme a Break! and Without a Trace. In her later years, she stayed busy with television commercials, including spots for Uber Eats and Kaiser Permanente.

A Fond Farewell

Saki was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer only about two months before her death. Her husband, producer Bob Borgen, shared the news with fans.

Supporting players like Eileen Saki are part of what made shows like M*A*S*H feel so real. Every time a rerun shows the gang gathered at Rosie's, she's right there behind the bar, keeping the 4077th in line. For fans who still watch the series on DVD, streaming or late-night TV, she'll always be part of the family.

What's your favorite M*A*S*H episode or moment at Rosie's Bar? Tell us in the comments below.