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Entertainment • Actor

Larry Linville

Larry Linville was an American actor best known for playing Major Frank Burns on the television series *M*A*S*H*.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 10, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Larry Linville was an American actor best known for playing Major Frank Burns on the television series *M*A*S*H*. He was born in Ojai, California, in 1939 and died in New York City in 2000. His screen work also included roles in series such as *Mannix* and *Paper Dolls*.

Early life and education

Linville was born in Ojai, California, in 1939. Sources identify his birth name as Lawrence Lavon Linville.

Acting career

He worked in television and became widely known for portraying Major Frank Burns on *M*A*S*H*. Later credits listed in sources include *Mannix* and *Paper Dolls*.

Death

Linville died in New York City on April 10, 2000. Sources report pneumonia due to complications from cancer surgery as the cause of death.

Key facts

  • Linville’s best-known role was Major Frank Burns on *M*A*S*H*.
  • He was born on September 29, 1939, in Ojai, California.
  • His birth name was Lawrence Lavon Linville.
  • He appeared in television series including *Mannix* and *Paper Dolls*.
  • He died on April 10, 2000, in New York City.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Larry Linville?
Larry Linville was an American actor best known for playing Major Frank Burns on *M*A*S*H*.
What was Larry Linville’s birth name?
His birth name was Lawrence Lavon Linville.
When and where was Larry Linville born?
He was born on September 29, 1939, in Ojai, California, United States.
When did Larry Linville die?
He died on April 10, 2000, in New York City, New York, United States.
What is Larry Linville best known for?
He is best known for his role as Major Frank Burns on the television series *M*A*S*H*.

References

  1. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0513271/bio/
    Supports: Birth name, birth date and place, death date and place, and major acting credits.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0513271/
    Supports: Birth date and place, occupation, and known-for credits.
  3. Czech Wikipedia — https://cs.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Linville
    Supports: Best-known role as Major Frank Burns and death details.
  4. TV Guide — https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/larry-linville/bio/3000386932/
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, and profession.
  5. Playbill — https://playbill.com/article/larry-linville-of-the-stage-and-tvs-m-a-s-h-is-dead-at-60-com-88409
    Supports: Death date, place, cause, and biographical background.