Eileen Saki, best known for her work as bar owner Rosie on the hit TV series M*A*S*H, has died. She was 79.
Saki’s family confirmed the actress died following a battle with cancer, according to TMZ.
Saki’s career in Hollywood spanned decades, with her first big role landing on the Primetime Emmy-winning show that focused on the lives of Army hospital staff stationed during the Korean War.
Fans will remember the actress for her appearance on a handful of episodes where her character was the owner of the self-titled “Rosie’s Bar,” the TMZ noted. Saki took over the role from two previous actresses.
'M*A*S*H' Actress Eileen Saki Dead at 79 https://t.co/94LBoeJ0rF
— TMZ (@TMZ) May 2, 2023
In later years, Saki appeared in 1984’s “Splash” alongside Tom Hanks, Mel Brooks’ “History of the World: Part I,” and the TV crime drama “CHiPS.”
Most recently, she reportedly appeared in an Uber Eats ad with L.A. Rams’ defensive tackle, Aaron Donald.
Fans of the Korean War-based sitcom took to Twitter to share images, clips and more about her work.
“Extremely sad news. Eileen Saki has passed away, deepest love, prayers and thoughts to her whole family,” one person wrote.
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
Another tweeted, “Here’s to you Rosie. REST IN PEACE Eileen Saki. [MASH]”
Those on the MASH Matters podcast tweeted a lengthy sweet message that read, “Our sweet Eileen. Our Sassy Rosie.”
“On behalf of her husband Bob, we extend sincere appreciation for the hundreds of MASH fans who filled Eileen’s final days with peace, encouragement, and love,” it added. “She read every email and responded to as many as she could.”
The rest can be seen here.
We love you, Eileen Saki.#GoodbyeFarewellandAmen pic.twitter.com/QviowbJdKx
— MASH Matters Podcast ???? (@mashmatters) May 2, 2023
Another person wrote, “Sad to learn of the passing of Eileen Saki. RIP Rosie. ClassicMASH.”
She is survived by her husband Bob Borgen.