Alan Alda, Iconic M*A*S*H Star and Science Advocate, Celebrates 90th Birthday
NEW YORK, January 28, 2026 – Alan Alda, the revered actor best known for his role as Captain Benjamin Franklin “Hawkeye” Pierce on the landmark television series *M*A*S*H*, marks his 90th birthday today. The milestone has sparked a wave of tributes from fans and colleagues, celebrating a career that spans over six decades and includes six Emmy Awards, three Tony Awards, and a lasting legacy as a champion for clear communication in science.
A Life in the Spotlight
Born on January 28, 1936, Alda’s path to stardom was shaped by an early challenge: he contracted polio at age seven during an epidemic. He recovered and went on to study at Fordham University before beginning a prolific career on stage and screen. His defining role came in 1972 when he was cast in *M*A*S*H*, a series that ran for 11 seasons and became one of the most celebrated shows in television history. Alda not only starred but also wrote and directed numerous episodes, winning five of his Emmy Awards for his work on the series.
Key Facts & Career Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthday | January 28, 1936 (90 years old) |
| Iconic Role | Capt. “Hawkeye” Pierce on *M*A*S*H* (1972-1983) |
| Major Awards | 6 Primetime Emmy Awards, 3 Tony Awards |
| Advocacy | Founder of the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science at Stony Brook University |
| Personal Life | Married to wife Arlene for 69 years |
| Recent Project | Host of the “Clear + Vivid with Alan Alda” podcast |
Beyond Acting: A Passion for Science
Alda’s interests have long extended beyond entertainment. A passionate advocate for science communication, he founded the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science in 2009. The center trains scientists and medical professionals to communicate complex topics more effectively to the public. He also hosted the PBS series *Scientific American Frontiers* for 11 years and continues to explore the intersection of art and science on his popular podcast, *Clear + Vivid with Alan Alda*.
Celebrating a Milestone
In the lead-up to his 90th birthday, Alda gave a personal interview to Reuters, reflecting on his life and career. He has also been a topic of celebration online, with fans and institutions like the Yale Film Archive sharing birthday wishes. The actor recently reacted to the success of Tina Fey’s adaptation of *The Four Seasons*, a film in which he starred and directed in 1981, showing his enduring connection to his past work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Emmy Awards has Alan Alda won?
Alan Alda has won six Primetime Emmy Awards. Five of these were for his work on *M*A*S*H* (for acting, writing, and directing), and one was for his role in the television movie *And the Band Played On*.
What is the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science?
Founded by Alda at Stony Brook University, the center is dedicated to helping scientists and health professionals improve their communication skills. It uses improvisational theater techniques and other methods to teach researchers how to connect with audiences, from school children to policymakers.
Is Alan Alda still married?
Yes. Alan Alda married photographer Arlene Weiss in 1957. The couple has been together for 69 years and has three daughters.