Current Status Answer
No, McLean Stevenson is not still alive. He died on February 15, 1996. This section provides a concise, verified summary of his status and key biographical context to directly address the query.
Identity and Background
McLean Stevenson was an American actor and comedian best known for his work in television and film during the 1970s. Understanding who he was and when he was active helps contextualize his lasting recognition and the ongoing interest in his status.
Full Name and Birth Details
Full name: Edward Hugh Stevenson. He was born on November 14, 1927, in Normal, Illinois, United States.
Primary Profession
Actor and comedian, with extensive work in television, film, and stage. He performed in both comedic and dramatic roles, though he became most widely recognized for particular television series.
Career Highlights
Stevenson appeared in numerous television shows and films, earning recognition for his performances and contributing to the cultural landscape of 1970s entertainment. Highlighting major roles clarifies why his name remains familiar today.
Notable Television Roles
- The Bob Newhart Show (1972–1978) — played army psychiatrist Colonel Flagle.
- M*A*S*H (1975–1976) — played Lt. Col. Henry Blake, a main cast role in early seasons.
- Hello, Larry (1979–1982) — played Larry Alder, a series that became closely associated with his name.
Selected Film Work
- Airport ’77 (1977) — supporting role in the disaster film ensemble.
- Project U.F.O. (1978–1979, television series) — lead role as Captain Ben Ryan.
- Other minor and supporting roles in features through the 1980s and early 1990s.
Verification of Status
Reliable sources confirm McLean Stevenson’s death in 1996. This subsection outlines how the information was verified and cites authoritative references to support the conclusion that he is deceased.
How the Status Is Confirmed
- Major newspapers and entertainment outlets reported his death at the time.
- Biographical databases and public records list his date of death as February 15, 1996.
- Social Security Death Index and other archival sources corroborate the details.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Death | February 15, 1996 | Obituary and public records |
| Place of Death | Los Angeles, California, United States | Obituary and biographical databases |
| Age at Death | 68 years old | Calculated from birth date and death date |
| Primary Occupation | Actor, comedian | Career archives and credits |
| Notable Role Example | Lt. Col. Henry Blake on M*A*S*H | Television credits and show documentation |
Legacy and Cultural Presence
Even after his passing, McLean Stevenson remains referenced in discussions of classic television. Examining his legacy explains why audiences continue to encounter his name and work long after his death.
Repeats and Syndication
Episodes of M*A*S*H and The Bob Newhart Show continue to air in syndication, periodically reintroducing Stevenson to new viewers. Hello, Larry also appears in retrospective programming focused on 1970s and 1980s sitcoms.
Collector and Fan Interest
- Merchandise and memorabilia from his shows maintain modest collector interest.
- Fans and historians reference his body of work in discussions about supporting actors of the era.
- Documentary and retrospective features sometimes include segments on his career and influence.
Common Misconceptions
Confusion about McLean Stevenson’s status can arise from infrequent public appearances and the long gap since his last roles. Addressing these points reduces ambiguity and clarifies the facts.
Why the Confusion Occurs
- He was not a high-profile celebrity after the 1980s, so news about him was infrequent.
- His voice and image appeared in reruns, leading some to assume he was still active.
- Occasional mistaken reports or hovers on social media can briefly revive incorrect assumptions.
Clarifying the Record
Authoritative sources, such as obituaries and entertainment databases, confirm he has been deceased for decades. No credible reports suggest he is alive after 1996.
Reliable Sources for Status Checks
When verifying whether a public figure is alive or deceased, consult established references that prioritize accuracy and citations. Using trustworthy sources ensures clarity and reduces misinformation.
Recommended Verification Sources
- Major national newspapers that published obituaries in 1996.
- AllMovie, IMDb, and other professionally maintained databases listing death details.
- The Social Security Death Index and other archival records supporting the timeline.
Summary
McLean Stevenson is deceased. He died on February 15, 1996, in Los Angeles at age 68. Reliable sources including obituaries, public records, and entertainment databases confirm this status. Understanding his career and how information about his death has been documented helps explain both his legacy and the persistence of questions about his current status.