Jamie Farr

Nobody but nobody would ever have predicted that a grocer's son from Toledo, OH, would some day become internationally famous for parading around in dresses and flowered hats. But that was the story of actor Jamie Farr (neé Jameel Farah), known the world over for his portrayal of cross-dressing Corporal Klinger on the hit TV series M*A*S*H (CBS, 1972-1983) for 11 years. There was a timeless comedic appeal to this cigar-chomping, bowlegged guy in heels, but Farr himself brought the character a human depth that served to both heighten and offer relief from the surrounding horrors of the Korean War. The actor was gregarious with a large personality both onscreen and off, and whether he was in the 4077th O.R., trading wits, on a game show, or hosting a golf tournament, he always seemed like he was having the greatest time of his life. It turns out he was, and he always encouraged others to follow suit.