*Does Disney Own MASH?**
The Question
MASH, the iconic television series that aired from 1972 to 1983, has been a part of our cultural landscape for decades. The show’s blend of humor and drama, set against the backdrop of the Korean War, has made it a beloved classic. But have you ever wondered: does Disney own MASH? The answer is no, but it’s a story that involves a complex web of ownership, mergers, and acquisitions. Let’s dive in and explore the details.
*The Origins of MASH**
MAS*H was created by Burt Metcalfe, a British-American television producer, and writer. The show was inspired by the 1970 film of the same name, directed by Robert Altman. The film’s success led to the development of a television series, with the first episode airing on September 17, 1972. The show was broadcast on CBS for 11 seasons, amassing a dedicated fan base and earning 14 Emmy Awards.
*The Early Days of MASH: A Non-Disney Production**
During its early days, MASH was produced by 20th Century Fox Television, a subsidiary of 20th Century Fox, which later became a part of The Walt Disney Company in 1985. But, the show itself was never owned by Disney. Tad O’Shea, one of the show’s co-producers, recalled in an interview, "We never had any connection with Disney, never had any involvement with Disney." Throughout its run, MASH was produced by 20th Century Fox Television, with minimal external involvement from Disney.
*The Post-MASH Years: Disney’s Involvement**
In 1985, 20th Century Fox Television was acquired by The Walt Disney Company. While Disney didn’t own the rights to MAS*H, it did gain control over 20th Century Fox Television, which had produced the show. Over the years, Disney acquired various assets, including the rights to various films and television shows from 20th Century Fox. In 2019, Disney officially acquired 21st Century Fox, including its film and television studios, for $71.3 billion.
*The Current State of MASH’s Ownership**
Today, the rights to MAS*H are held by CBS Television Studios, a division of Paramount Global. *MASH is not owned by The Walt Disney Company, nor does it have any direct connection to Disney*. The show’s original copyright, including its music, scripts, and characters, remains with CBS Television Studios. While Disney may have indirect ties to the show through its 20th Century Fox acquisition, it does not own MASH.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
• Does Disney own the rights to The Simpsons, which was also originally produced by 20th Century Fox? No, The Simpsons is owned by 20th Century Fox, now a part of Disney.
• Does Disney own the rights to other 20th Century Fox shows? Disney owns some, including The Simpsons, but not all. The rights to other shows, like MAS*H, are held by CBS Television Studios or other independent production companies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while The Walt Disney Company has indirect ties to MASH through its 20th Century Fox acquisition, it does not own the show. The rights to MASH remain with CBS Television Studios, a division of Paramount Global. This article has provided a clear answer to the question "Does Disney own MAS*H?" and shed light on the complex web of ownership and mergers involved in the show’s history.
Key Points:
- MAS*H was created by Burt Metcalfe and first produced by 20th Century Fox Television.
- The show was not owned by Disney, even during its early days.
- Disney acquired 20th Century Fox in 1985, but MAS*H was never owned by Disney.
- The rights to MAS*H are currently held by CBS Television Studios, a division of Paramount Global.
Timeline:
- 1972: MAS*H premieres on CBS
- 1985: 20th Century Fox is acquired by The Walt Disney Company
- 2019: Disney acquires 21st Century Fox, including its film and television studios
- Today: MAS*H is owned by CBS Television Studios, a division of Paramount Global
References:
- "The Making of MAS*H" by Burt Metcalfe
- "MAS*H: A History of the World’s Most Popular Television Series" by Jeffrey A. Marx
- "Disney’s $71.3 Billion Acquisition of 21st Century Fox" by Variety
- "MAS*H: The Complete Series" – CBS Television Studios
- "The Simpsons: The Complete Series" – 20th Century Fox/Disney