Alan Alda’s Journey Through Career and Health

Choosing a favorite Alan Alda character is no easy task for many fans. From Senator Arnold Vinick in “The West Wing” to lawyer Jack Burroughs in “The Four Seasons” and the unforgettable “Hawkeye” Pierce in “M*A*S*H,” Alda’s roles are diverse and impactful. Alda’s work on “M*A*S*H,” which aired for 11 seasons starting in 1972, earned him five of his six Emmy Awards.

Alda shared, “I have doctors coming up to me on the street all the time telling me that seeing me in the show made them want to become a doctor.” Interestingly, none expressed a desire to pursue acting.

Before his iconic role as Pierce, Alda faced serious health challenges. At seven years old, he contracted polio, before the advent of a vaccine. Reflecting on that period, he said, “My father had just gotten a huge part in a movie, playing George Gershwin. And about a week after he started shooting, I got polio. And he and my mother had to administer the treatment… I remember thinking it was hard on them.”

Alda grew up watching his father, Robert Alda, perform in vaudeville, burlesque, and Broadway productions, like “Guys and Dolls.” Every Saturday, he watched from the wings. Amidst his family’s struggles, including his mother Joan’s schizophrenia and paranoia, Alda found ways to observe and stay curious about reality, saying it made him “more observant” and curious.

“We didn’t go back to our dressing rooms between shots,” Alda said about the set of “M*A*S*H.” “We stayed in our chairs in a circle and made fun of one another and laughed. That connection carried onto the set.”

The series finale was watched by over 100 million viewers.

Since 2009, Alda has focused on helping scientists and medical professionals communicate more effectively with the public through the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University. He uses methods like improvisation to foster connection. “Improvisation really puts you in touch with the other person,” he said.

On his “Clear+Vivid” podcast, Alda interviews diverse guests like Paul McCartney, Michael J. Fox, Noah Wyle, and Joy Behar. Alda values clarity and honesty, openly discussing his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis after noticing symptoms like acting out dreams.

At age 79, Alda revealed his diagnosis, embracing reality. “Reality is my friend,” he emphasized. While there’s no cure for the disorder, Alda continues to explore treatments and approaches.

“I don’t let Parkinson’s define me,” Alda remarked. “It’s not who I am. It’s just a hobby.”

Alda finds humor essential in facing challenges. For instance, while struggling at the computer, Alda finds amusement and shares it with his wife, Arlene.

Alda and Arlene, who have been married 70 years, share three daughters and eight grandchildren. Despite difficulties like buttoning his shirt, Alda remains hopeful by exploring new solutions. Celebrating small victories, Alda recalls triumphantly putting on his socks.