TLDR: Yes, Mike Farrell is alive. He is 87, and his wife of more than 40 years, Shelley Fabares, died on August 22, 2026. Last checked October 14, 2026.
Mike Farrell is alive. He is also grieving the loss of his wife of more than 40 years.
The Death of Shelley Fabares
Actress Shelley Fabares died in Los Angeles on August 22, 2026, at age 82, according to Fox News. Her family confirmed her death in a statement to the Associated Press and did not disclose a cause.
The family wrote that she was “a source of love, strength, laughter, and comfort.” Farrell, 87, posted photos of the couple with a red heart, Daily Voice reported.
They married on December 31, 1984. Fabares was known for The Donna Reed Show, Coach and the 1962 No. 1 hit “Johnny Angel.”
His Return to TV
Before that loss, Farrell guest-starred in the January 29, 2026 episode of 9-1-1 titled “Handle With Care,” per Parade. He played Bill, an older man who wanders off to meet his girlfriend at the airport on a riding lawnmower.
It was his first screen role since two NCIS episodes in 2019, and he was 86 when it aired.
What He Said in August
TVLine reported on August 17, 2026, on his interview with the Still Here Hollywood podcast. He said he remains very close with Alan Alda and spoke fondly of the castmates who have died.
He also recalled being surprised that his first day on M*A*S*H began with a table read, and said the cast and crew applauded after it.
B.J. Hunnicutt and Beyond
Farrell joined M*A*S*H in its fourth season in 1975 as Captain B.J. Hunnicutt, replacing Wayne Rogers, and stayed through the 1983 finale.
He also wrote and directed several episodes, including “The Yalu Brick Road” in season 8 and “Death Takes a Holiday” in season 9.
Later he played veterinarian Dr. James Hansen on Providence from 1999 to 2002. He guest-starred on Desperate Housewives, Ghost Whisperer, Supernatural and NCIS, where he played Judge Miles Deakin.
His Activism
Farrell is president of Death Penalty Focus, a group that campaigns against capital punishment. He also sits on the advisory board of the Military Religious Freedom Foundation.
He wrote a memoir, Just Call Me Mike, in 2007.
More Classic TV Check-Ins
We keep similar updates for Shirley Jones and Sally Field. Each page notes the date we last checked.
Mike Farrell: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mike Farrell still alive?
Yes. He is 87 and guest-starred on 9-1-1 in January 2026. We last checked on October 14, 2026.
How old is Mike Farrell?
He was born on February 6, 1939, so he is 87.
Did Mike Farrell’s wife die?
Yes. Shelley Fabares died on August 22, 2026, at age 82. They had been married since 1984.
What was Mike Farrell’s role on M*A*S*H?
He played Captain B.J. Hunnicutt from season 4 through the 1983 finale.
Is Mike Farrell still close to Alan Alda?
He told the Still Here Hollywood podcast that he is still very close with Alda, per TVLine.
What has Mike Farrell done since M*A*S*H?
He starred in Providence, guest-starred on shows including NCIS and 9-1-1, and works as an activist.
