Patrick Adiarte, the beloved actor renowned for his roles in the iconic television series MASH and the Broadway classic The King and I, has passed away at the age of 82. Adiarte died on April 15, 2025, in a Los Angeles-area hospital due to pneumonia, as confirmed by his niece, Stephanie Hogan, to The Hollywood Reporter.
Born in Manila on August 2, 1942, Adiarte’s early life was marked by tragedy. During World War II, he and his family were imprisoned by Japanese forces on the island of Cebu. At just two years old, Adiarte, along with his five-year-old sister Irene and their mother, Purita, suffered severe injuries when Japanese soldiers threw grenades at them during an escape attempt. Tragically, their father, who served as a captain for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, was killed shortly after.
After the war, the Adiarte family immigrated to the United States in 1946, arriving through Ellis Island. They faced numerous challenges, including threats of deportation, until they were granted American citizenship in 1956, thanks in part to the advocacy of then-Senator John F. Kennedy.
Adiarte’s career began in the theater, where he joined the cast of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s The King and I in 1952, playing one of the royal children. He later reprised this role in the 1956 film adaptation, portraying Prince Chulalongkorn alongside Yul Brynner, who became a mentor and father figure to him. In his illustrious career, Adiarte also starred in the 1958 musical Flower Drum Song, directed by Gene Kelly, where he played the role of Wang San, the Americanized second son.
On television, Adiarte is fondly remembered for his role as Ho-Jon, the orphaned Korean houseboy in MASH. He appeared in seven episodes during the series' first season, assisting the main characters, Hawkeye Pierce and Trapper John McIntyre. His character later left to pursue medical studies in the United States, adding depth to his role in the series.
In addition to MAS*H, Adiarte made a memorable guest appearance on The Brady Bunch, where he played a construction gofer during the family’s trip to Honolulu. This episode, which kicked off the show's fourth season in 1972, showcased his charm and comedic timing.
Adiarte's television credits also include appearances on popular shows such as Hawaii Five-O, Kojak, Ironside, and Bonanza. His versatility as an actor allowed him to transition seamlessly between stage and screen, earning him a loyal fan base.
Despite his success, Adiarte faced personal challenges. He was married to actress Loni Ackerman from 1975 until their divorce in 1992. His sister, who shared his traumatic childhood experiences, passed away in 2016. Adiarte is survived by his niece and nephew.
In recent years, Adiarte continued to share his passion for dance, teaching at institutions such as Santa Monica College. His contributions to the arts were celebrated not only for their entertainment value but also for their cultural significance, particularly in representing Asian American experiences on stage and screen.
Adiarte’s legacy is marked by resilience and talent. He not only overcame a harrowing childhood but also paved the way for future generations of performers. His journey from a war-torn childhood in the Philippines to becoming a celebrated figure in American entertainment is a testament to his strength and dedication.
As fans and colleagues mourn his passing, they remember Patrick Adiarte not just for his roles, but for his warmth, kindness, and the indelible mark he left on the performing arts. His work continues to inspire, reminding us all of the power of storytelling and the importance of representation in media.
