The Life of Legendary MASH* Actor Alan Alda

In 1961, Alda appeared on Broadway in Purlie Victorious, a sharp stage comedy written by and starring Ossie Davis. The production gave him an important early credit at a point when he was still building his reputation.

Broadway placed him in a more visible and demanding professional world. He was no longer only learning through regional theater and smaller jobs; he was now working in a major New York production that helped move him closer to screen opportunities.