Second M*A*S*H star to pass away in just one month
Actress Eileen Saki, best known for her role as bar owner Rosie in the hit series M*A*S*H has died.
The 79-year-old had been fighting pancreatic cancer, and “passed away peacefully in Los Angeles” on May 1, according to PEOPLE. Eileen’s fellow M*A*S*H star, Judy Farrell, had died just one month prior on April 2.
Eileen’s manager, Camilla Fluxman Pines confirmed the devastating news in a statement to the publication, writing that “she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in January.
"She was a lung cancer survivor in 2004.She got a second chance at auditioning and working in the industry that she loved so much - she shot a couple big commercials shortly before her diagnosis.
"She was often recognized by face or even just voice by people who knew they knew her 'from somewhere' - and loved talking to young actors about the journey."
Suki’s former co-star Jeff Maxwell, who brought the character Igor Straminsky to life on M*A*S*H, honoured his late friend with a social media post, sharing the news of her passing on the official page for his MASH Matters podcast.
“Our sweet Eileen. Our sassy Rosie,” he wrote, before going on to extend his appreciation - as well as that of her husband, Bob - to Eileen’s devoted fans and followers who offered her their love and their support in her final days, before promising to share more on Eileen as the day went on, and encouraging others to do the same.
“Our sweet, sweet Eileen. How we love you,” he concluded. “How we will miss you.”
True to his word, Jeff went on to post a few favourite Eileen moments, from her most recent work in advertisements, to time on screen with the likes of Mickey Rooney and Dom Deluise, and last - but certainly not least - as “a scene with a certain sassy bartender”.
Saki had actually been the third actress to portray Rosie, having taken over from Frances Fong and Shizuko Hoshi for her eight episode stint. In the end, she was the final and longest-running owner of Rosie’s Bar, and remains dear to her co-workers and fans for it.
“You will forever be in our hearts!” one commented, in a sentiment shared by many.
“Sorry to hear of her passing. Great memories at Rosie’s,” said another.
“She was the best Rosie of them all and such a great actress,” one declared. “So sorry to hear she passed on.”
“One of the finest roles ever played,” someone agreed, before requesting that she “say hello to Col. Blake, Trapper, Major Burns”.
And as one said on behalf of them all, “you fought the great fight, Eileen. Now, rest easy, for your burdens and struggles are behind you. Love and strength to the entire family during these hard days ahead.”
Images: Facebook