The entertainment world mourns the loss of a versatile performer who brought charm and talent to both television and musical theater.
According to Daily Mail, Patrick Adiarte, known for his recurring role as Ho-Jon in the first season of MAS*H and his performances in classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals, passed away on Tuesday at age 82 from pneumonia in Los Angeles.
The Philippines-born actor's career spanned decades, showcasing his remarkable range from Broadway to television. His niece Stephanie Hogan confirmed his death, marking the end of a journey that began in Manila in 1943 and led him to become a celebrated figure in American entertainment.
Adiarte's path to stardom emerged from challenging circumstances during World War II. As a young child, he survived internment on an island with his mother Purita and sister Irene, enduring a harrowing escape attempt where Japanese forces threw grenades at them, leaving both children with burns.
The family's arrival at Ellis Island after the war marked a turning point in their lives. By 1951, both Patrick and his dancer mother had secured roles in the Broadway production of The King and I, with Patrick performing as one of the royal children just before his eighth birthday.
Their immigration status remained uncertain until 1956 when then-Senator John F. Kennedy helped the Adiartes obtain U.S. citizenship, ending years of deportation concerns.
Adiarte's talent caught the attention of legendary performer Gene Kelly, who praised the young actor's potential during a television appearance. Kelly was quoted saying:
Patrick is a mighty fine dancer. If there's gonna be another Fred Astaire, I think it might well be Pat.
His television career flourished throughout the 1970s with appearances on popular shows like Bonanza, The Brady Bunch, Hawaii Five-O, and Kojak. However, it was his role as Ho-Jon in MAS*H that would become his most enduring television performance.
The character's storyline in the pilot episode revealed Ho-Jon's acceptance into an American college, with the doctors organizing a fundraising rally for his tuition. This plot point reflected the show's ability to blend comedy with meaningful character development.
Adiarte's contribution to musical theater included significant roles in film adaptations of Rodgers and Hammerstein productions. His performances in The King and I and Flower Drum Song demonstrated his versatility as both an actor and dancer.
His later career included teaching dance at institutions like Santa Monica College, passing on his expertise to new generations. This transition from performer to educator showcased his commitment to preserving the art form he loved.
The actor's work in the 1965 Cold War comedy John Goldfarb, Please Come Home! further demonstrated his range, as he portrayed the prince of a fictional Arab country alongside established stars.
Patrick Adiarte's passing represents the loss of a groundbreaking figure in American entertainment. His journey from war-torn Manila to Broadway and Hollywood success helped pave the way for future Asian American performers. The actor's death from pneumonia at a Los Angeles hospital marks the end of an era that saw him transition from child performer to respected television actor and finally to dance educator. His contributions to both stage and screen created a lasting legacy in American entertainment history.
