Eileen Saki, renowned for her portrayal of Rosie on the iconic sitcom M*A*S*H, has passed away after battling pancreatic cancer.
Saki’s passing was confirmed to Fox News Digital by her husband, Bob Borgen.
“Eileen passed away just two months after being diagnosed with Advanced Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer,” he said.
“She was working up until January 2023 and shot big commercials in October and November — in fact, she got a callback for her last audition and was happy about that.
“She loved her time on “M*A*S*H” and appreciated all the messages she received from “M*A*S*H” fans and former cast members during the last few weeks.”
Saki’s most recognisable performance was as Rosie, the beloved proprietor of Rosie’s Bar in the hit TV series M*A*S*H. She was the final and most long-standing actress to take on the role, following in the footsteps of two previous performers.
Rosie’s Bar was a sanctuary for soldiers looking to unwind after a hard day, and Saki’s portrayal of the character endeared her to audiences across the country.
In addition to her work on M*A*S*H, Eileen had notable roles in several feature films, including Policewomen (1974), History of the World, Part I (1981), and Meteor (1979). She also appeared in the popular comedy Splash in 1984.
Eileen’s versatility as an actress and her dedication to her craft earned her a well-deserved place in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence aspiring performers to this day.
Following news of her passing, fans from near and far took to social media to express their condolences and pay tribute to the late star.
We love you, Eileen Saki.#GoodbyeFarewellandAmen pic.twitter.com/QviowbJdKx
— MASH Matters Podcast ???? (@mashmatters) May 2, 2023
Sad to learn of the passing of Eileen Saki. RIP Rosie. #ClassicMASH pic.twitter.com/4xgCOyFy3T
— Classic MASH ???? (@ClassicMASH) May 2, 2023
Extremely sad news
Eileen Saki has passed away, deepest love, prayers and thoughts to her whole family????????????????????????????????????????????#ClassicMASH #mash #mash4077 pic.twitter.com/AY8Di6SV9h
— Mashaholic (@mashaholic) May 2, 2023
Eileen Saki, most known for portraying Rosie on M*A*S*H* has died. She was 79. She was also in the movie Splash with Tom Hanks and guest starred on CHiPS, Good Times, and Gimme a Break! #RIP #MASH4077 #ClassicTV pic.twitter.com/ngxfBQRW4S
— Wilson (@WilsonsWorld) May 3, 2023
Such a sad day for the entire MASH family.???? Eileen Saki as the ever-feisty Rosie could hold her ground with any actor of any gender or size. Raising a glass of grape knee high toward the sky in a radaresque salute to a lovely lady! ???? #RIP #RIPEikeenSaki???? pic.twitter.com/tub8iC5dtD
— ????️????Marty Weiss ????????????????????????????????????????????????♌️???????????? (@mwmtalent) May 3, 2023
Saki is survived by her husband.