Alda, Alan (1936– )

US television and film actor. Developing his satirical style with the Second City comedy troupe in New York City, he starred as ‘Hawkeye’ Pierce in the television comedy series M∗A∗S∗H (1972–83), winning four Emmy awards.

He frequently collaborates with Woody Allen in films such as Crimes and Misdemeanors (1989) and Everyone Says I Love Your (1996). Other films include the comedies Betsy's Wedding (1990), which he also wrote and directed, Canadian Bacon (1995), What Women Want (2000), and the drama The Aviator (2004), for which he received an Academy Award nomination for his supporting role. Other television work includes regular guest appearances on ER (1999) and a recurring role on The West Wing (2004–06). He appeared on Broadway in Jake's Women (1992) and Glengarry Glen Ross (2005.)

He has taken an outspoken stance on many social issues, serving, for example, as the co-chair of the campaign to pass the Equal Rights Amendment in 1982. His memoirs include Never Have Your Dog Stuffed: and Other Things I've Learned (2005) and Things I Overheard While Talking to Myself (2007).