Nearly fifty years ago, Jamie Farr guest-starred in one episode of the classic TV show, M*A*S*H. After his character, Maxwell Q. Klinger, became a fan-favorite, the creators wrote him into the show, making what was supposed to be one day’s work an eleven year run.
When Farr was discovered in high school, he made appearances on shows throughout the ‘50s and ‘60s, including The Dick Van Dyke Show. He even was a series regular on The Red Skelton Show, The Danny Kaye Show, and The Chicago Teddy Bears. As for film, he appeared in movies like Blackboard Jungle, The Greatest Story Ever Told, Who’s Minding the Mint? and With Six You Get Eggroll.
In the ‘70s and ‘80s, Farr became a familiar face on game shows across America, serving as a panelist for The $25,000 Pyramid, Match Game-Hollywood Squares Hour, and many others, most notably, The Gong Show—where he was a regular judge. During this time, not only was he on M*A*S*H, but he appeared on shows, TV films, and even a commercial for Wonder Bread. Eventually, Farr landed a part in The Cannonball Run series—the only character to appear in all three movies, leading him to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Farr’s also had a hand at theater, appearing in the Broadway revival of Guys and Dolls, as well as the national tour of The Odd Couple. Even in his eighties, he still participates in regional theater and occasional TV appearances. His more recent work includes The $250,000 Game Show Spectacular, A Grandpa for Christmas, and FOX’s The Cool Kids.
Outside of acting, Farr has written his own autobiography, Just Farr Fun, and a children’s book with his wife: Hababy’s Christmas Eve. Additionally, he’s helped raise $6.5 million for children’s charities.
