"M*A*S*H", "The King and I" legend and actor mentored by Gene Kelly passes away at 82
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The world of classic television has lost a beloved figure. Patrick Adiarte, the multi-talented actor and dancer best known for his role as Ho-Jon on the iconic series M*A*S*H, has passed away at the age of 82.
While his name may not be instantly familiar to all, his face and performances were a memorable part of 1960s and ’70s pop culture.
Beyond M*A*S*H, Adiarte also appeared in hit shows like The King and I and Hullabaloo, showcasing a unique blend of charisma, grace, and talent that left a lasting impression on audiences of the era.
A Star is Born: From Manila to the Bright Lights
Patrick Adiarte’s life story is as dramatic as any Hollywood script. Born in Manila in 1942, his early years were shaped by the turmoil of World War II.
At just two years old, Patrick, his sister Irene, and their mother Purita were imprisoned by Japanese forces on the island of Cebu.
In a harrowing escape attempt, both children were injured by grenades, and the family suffered the devastating loss of Patrick’s father, a captain in the US Army Corps of Engineers.
After the war, the Adiarte family relocated to New York in 1946, seeking medical care for Irene’s injuries.
Their story caught the attention of then-Senator John F. Kennedy, who helped secure American citizenship for the family in 1956—a testament to the resilience and hope that defined Patrick’s early life.
A Trailblazer on Stage and Screen
Patrick’s big break came when he was cast as Prince Chulalongkorn in the 1956 film adaptation of The King and I, starring alongside Yul Brynner and Rita Moreno.
He had already played one of the royal children in the stage version, and his performance on screen was widely praised.
Adiarte would later recall Brynner as a “surrogate father,” a mentor who helped guide his early career.
His talents extended far beyond acting. Under the mentorship of Hollywood legend Gene Kelly, Patrick honed his skills as a dancer.
Adiarte dancing up a storm in Flower Drum Song. Source: classicfilmrules / Youtube.
Kelly directed him in the stage version of Flower Drum Song in 1958, where Patrick played the wisecracking Wang San—a role he reprised in the 1961 film adaptation.
Kelly, ever the champion of young talent, once declared, “If there’s gonna be another Fred Astaire, I think it might as well be Pat.” The two even demonstrated the evolution of tap dancing on television, and Kelly helped Patrick land a year-long gig as a dancer on Italian TV.
Television Fame: M*A*S*H and Beyond
For many, Patrick Adiarte will always be remembered as Ho-Jon, the earnest and resourceful cabin boy on M*A*S*H.
Appearing in the pilot and the first season, Ho-Jon was a fan favorite, serving as a bridge between the American doctors and the Korean people. His storyline—leaving the 4077th to attend medical school in America—was a poignant reflection of hope and opportunity.
Adiarte’s television career didn’t stop there. He made memorable guest appearances on beloved shows like The Brady Bunch (as the helpful construction gofer in the Hawaii episodes), It Takes a Thief, Ironside, Bonanza, Hawaii Five-O, and Kojak.
His versatility and charm made him a sought-after character actor during the golden age of television.
A Life of Resilience and Reinvention
Patrick’s journey was never a straight line. After his run in The King and I, he attended the Professional Children’s School in New York, where he rubbed shoulders with future stars like Liza Minnelli and Marvin Hamlisch.
He married singer and actress Loni Ackerman in 1975, though the couple later divorced in 1992.
Despite personal hardships—including the loss of his sister Irene in 2016—Patrick remained close to his family, survived by his niece Stephanie and nephew Michael.
His niece, Stephanie Hogan, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that Adiarte died of pneumonia on April 15, following a period of declining health.
Breaking Barriers for Asian-American Performers
Patrick Adiarte’s legacy extends beyond his on-screen roles. At a time when opportunities for Asian-American actors were scarce, he broke through Hollywood’s barriers, bringing authenticity and dignity to his characters.
His performances in The King and I and Flower Drum Song were especially significant, as these productions were among the first to feature Asian actors in leading roles on Broadway and in Hollywood.
His work paved the way for future generations of Asian-American performers, and his story remains an inspiration for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider in their own country.
Also read: Legendary voice behind Emperor Palpatine in Star Wars passes away—remembering the extraordinary legacy of Clive Revill
Remembering Patrick: Tributes and Reflections
As news of Patrick’s passing spreads, tributes are pouring in from fans and colleagues alike. Many remember his warmth, humility, and the quiet strength he brought to every role.
Alan Alda, who played Hawkeye on M*A*S*H, once described Patrick as “a gentle soul with a fierce talent.”
For those who grew up watching M*A*S*H, The King and I, or Flower Drum Song, Patrick Adiarte was more than just a familiar face—he was a symbol of perseverance, hope, and the power of the arts to heal and unite.
His journey from war-torn Manila to the stages and screens of America is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
As news of his passing spreads, fans and colleagues alike are reflecting on his remarkable journey—from a childhood marked by wartime tragedy to a career that broke barriers and brought joy to millions.
Read next: Legendary composer behind “Annie” and “Bye Bye Birdie” passes away at 96
Did you have a favorite Patrick Adiarte moment from M*A*S*H or another show? How did his story inspire you? Let’s celebrate his life together and keep his legacy alive for future generations. As we say goodbye to this remarkable performer, we invite you to share your memories and tributes in the comments below.
Rest in peace, Patrick. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of fans everywhere.
While his name may not be instantly familiar to all, his face and performances were a memorable part of 1960s and ’70s pop culture.
Beyond M*A*S*H, Adiarte also appeared in hit shows like The King and I and Hullabaloo, showcasing a unique blend of charisma, grace, and talent that left a lasting impression on audiences of the era.
A Star is Born: From Manila to the Bright Lights
Patrick Adiarte’s life story is as dramatic as any Hollywood script. Born in Manila in 1942, his early years were shaped by the turmoil of World War II.
At just two years old, Patrick, his sister Irene, and their mother Purita were imprisoned by Japanese forces on the island of Cebu.
In a harrowing escape attempt, both children were injured by grenades, and the family suffered the devastating loss of Patrick’s father, a captain in the US Army Corps of Engineers.
After the war, the Adiarte family relocated to New York in 1946, seeking medical care for Irene’s injuries.
Despite facing the threat of deportation, Patrick’s talent and determination shone through. He landed a role in the stage version of The King and I alongside his mother, a dancer. Image source: Timeless Legends / Youtube.
Their story caught the attention of then-Senator John F. Kennedy, who helped secure American citizenship for the family in 1956—a testament to the resilience and hope that defined Patrick’s early life.
A Trailblazer on Stage and Screen
Patrick’s big break came when he was cast as Prince Chulalongkorn in the 1956 film adaptation of The King and I, starring alongside Yul Brynner and Rita Moreno.
He had already played one of the royal children in the stage version, and his performance on screen was widely praised.
Adiarte would later recall Brynner as a “surrogate father,” a mentor who helped guide his early career.
His talents extended far beyond acting. Under the mentorship of Hollywood legend Gene Kelly, Patrick honed his skills as a dancer.
Adiarte with Gene Kelly. Image source: Omnibus With Alistaire Cooke / Youtube.
Adiarte dancing up a storm in Flower Drum Song. Source: classicfilmrules / Youtube.
Kelly directed him in the stage version of Flower Drum Song in 1958, where Patrick played the wisecracking Wang San—a role he reprised in the 1961 film adaptation.
Kelly, ever the champion of young talent, once declared, “If there’s gonna be another Fred Astaire, I think it might as well be Pat.” The two even demonstrated the evolution of tap dancing on television, and Kelly helped Patrick land a year-long gig as a dancer on Italian TV.
Television Fame: M*A*S*H and Beyond
For many, Patrick Adiarte will always be remembered as Ho-Jon, the earnest and resourceful cabin boy on M*A*S*H.
Appearing in the pilot and the first season, Ho-Jon was a fan favorite, serving as a bridge between the American doctors and the Korean people. His storyline—leaving the 4077th to attend medical school in America—was a poignant reflection of hope and opportunity.
Adiarte’s television career didn’t stop there. He made memorable guest appearances on beloved shows like The Brady Bunch (as the helpful construction gofer in the Hawaii episodes), It Takes a Thief, Ironside, Bonanza, Hawaii Five-O, and Kojak.
His versatility and charm made him a sought-after character actor during the golden age of television.
A Life of Resilience and Reinvention
Patrick’s journey was never a straight line. After his run in The King and I, he attended the Professional Children’s School in New York, where he rubbed shoulders with future stars like Liza Minnelli and Marvin Hamlisch.
He married singer and actress Loni Ackerman in 1975, though the couple later divorced in 1992.
Patrick Adiarte, known for his roles in M*A*S*H and The Brady Bunch, has died of pneumonia in hospital at the age of 82, with his niece confirming the news. Image source: Real News / Youtube.
Despite personal hardships—including the loss of his sister Irene in 2016—Patrick remained close to his family, survived by his niece Stephanie and nephew Michael.
His niece, Stephanie Hogan, confirmed to The Hollywood Reporter that Adiarte died of pneumonia on April 15, following a period of declining health.
Breaking Barriers for Asian-American Performers
Patrick Adiarte’s legacy extends beyond his on-screen roles. At a time when opportunities for Asian-American actors were scarce, he broke through Hollywood’s barriers, bringing authenticity and dignity to his characters.
He was mentored by Hollywood greats such as Gene Kelly and Yul Brynner, and leaves behind a legacy as one of the most prominent Asian actors of his generation; he is survived by his niece Stephanie, nephew Michael, and was predeceased by his sister. Image source: Real News / Youtube.
His performances in The King and I and Flower Drum Song were especially significant, as these productions were among the first to feature Asian actors in leading roles on Broadway and in Hollywood.
His work paved the way for future generations of Asian-American performers, and his story remains an inspiration for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider in their own country.
Also read: Legendary voice behind Emperor Palpatine in Star Wars passes away—remembering the extraordinary legacy of Clive Revill
Remembering Patrick: Tributes and Reflections
As news of Patrick’s passing spreads, tributes are pouring in from fans and colleagues alike. Many remember his warmth, humility, and the quiet strength he brought to every role.
Alan Alda, who played Hawkeye on M*A*S*H, once described Patrick as “a gentle soul with a fierce talent.”
For those who grew up watching M*A*S*H, The King and I, or Flower Drum Song, Patrick Adiarte was more than just a familiar face—he was a symbol of perseverance, hope, and the power of the arts to heal and unite.
His journey from war-torn Manila to the stages and screens of America is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
As news of his passing spreads, fans and colleagues alike are reflecting on his remarkable journey—from a childhood marked by wartime tragedy to a career that broke barriers and brought joy to millions.
Read next: Legendary composer behind “Annie” and “Bye Bye Birdie” passes away at 96
Did you have a favorite Patrick Adiarte moment from M*A*S*H or another show? How did his story inspire you? Let’s celebrate his life together and keep his legacy alive for future generations. As we say goodbye to this remarkable performer, we invite you to share your memories and tributes in the comments below.
Rest in peace, Patrick. Your light will continue to shine in the hearts of fans everywhere.
