Story perspectives

Mike Farrell Returns to TV in 9-1-1 Episode

1/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

Mike Farrell, best known for his role as B.J. Hunnicutt on M*A*S*H, returns to television in the January 29 episode of 9-1-1 titled "Handle With Care," his first TV role since 2019.
In the episode, Farrell plays Bill, an 87-year-old man whose son Andrew fears he is losing his faculties and may be catfished.
When Andrew's surveillance fails, he calls 9-1-1.
Bill is found riding a lawnmower to the airport to meet his girlfriend, Cheryl.
The episode ends with Andrew reassessing his overprotective approach to his father.

History

Historical Context

The finale of M*A*S*H, "Goodbye, Farewell and Amen," aired on February 28, 1983, attracting over 105 million viewers and becoming the most-watched episode in U.S. television history. The series evolved from comedy to drama, reflecting societal changes and the impact of the Vietnam War. Mike Farrell's portrayal of B.J. Hunnicutt continues to resonate, highlighting themes of aging and family dynamics in contemporary media.

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Story summary

Mike Farrell, best known for his role as B.J. Hunnicutt on M*A*S*H, returns to television in the January 29 episode of 9-1-1 titled "Handle With Care," his first TV role since 2019.
In the episode, Farrell plays Bill, an 87-year-old man whose son Andrew fears he is losing his faculties and may be catfished.
When Andrew's surveillance fails, he calls 9-1-1.
Bill is found riding a lawnmower to the airport to meet his girlfriend, Cheryl.
The episode ends with Andrew reassessing his overprotective approach to his father.

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