Dionne Warwick, born Marie Dionne Warrick on December 12, 1940, in East Orange, New Jersey, is a legendary artist whose contribution to the music world spans decades. As of 2025, Warwick is 84 years old. Known for her remarkable voice and lasting impact, she is a true icon in the entertainment industry.
Warwick grew up in a musically inclined and devout family. Her father, Mantrel, worked in the gospel music industry, promoting records, while her mother, Lee, managed the gospel group, the Drinkard Singers. This upbringing played a crucial role in shaping her future career.
According to Ending Explained , Warwick was immersed in music, beginning to sing in church. Alongside her sister Dee Dee, she formed the gospel trio called the Gospelaires, which further strengthened her musical foundation. It was this early exposure to music that set the stage for her successful career.
Dionne Warwick (Image via Getty)
Her big break came in the early 1960s with the release of chart-topping hits such as “Walk On By” and “I Say a Little Prayer.” These songs marked the beginning of a string of successful releases that would solidify her as a top-tier artist. Throughout her career, Warwick collaborated with some of the most respected names in the music industry, including legendary composers Burt Bacharach and renowned singer Barry Manilow.
Over the years, Dionne Warwick’s exceptional talent earned her numerous accolades. She has received several Grammy Awards, which reflect her lasting influence on the music scene. Additionally, her accomplishments have been recognized with inductions into various prestigious halls of fame, further cementing her place as one of the greatest artists of all time.
Through her extraordinary journey in music, Dionne Warwick continues to be celebrated for her remarkable voice, rich legacy, and her enduring impact on the music industry.
Gary Burghoff, who famously portrayed Radar O’Reilly on M A S H*, decided to leave the show during its eighth season for both personal and professional reasons. On-screen, Radar’s departure was explained as a hardship discharge, which allowed him to return to Iowa to care for his mother after the death of his uncle. Burghoff also wanted more time with his family and to recover from burnout.
Radar’s exit became a defining moment in M A S H* history, especially in the two-part episode titled “Good-Bye Radar.” In these episodes, Radar struggled with the emotional challenge of leaving the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital, where he had been an essential member of the team. It was a difficult decision for him, as it meant parting with close friends and a job he was excellent at.
Radar O’Reilly in MASH (Image via Getty)
Burghoff initially wanted a more dramatic and emotional farewell for Radar. However, the show’s final portrayal was more subdued, capturing M A S H*’s trademark balance of humor and poignant wartime moments. Radar’s departure, while emotional, reflected the realism the show often presented in its portrayal of life during wartime, where goodbyes were often quiet and bittersweet.
After leaving the main series, Burghoff briefly reprised his role as Radar in the spin-off AfterM A S H*. He appeared in two episodes, providing fans a chance to reconnect with the beloved character. This allowed Burghoff to move beyond the role that had shaped much of his career. His departure marked a turning point, both personally and for the show, leaving a lasting impact on M A S H* and its audience.
