Video: 'M.A.S.H -Final episode (Goodbye,Farewell and Amen) FHD quality'

(Monday, February 28, 1983, 8:30 p.m. EST) — 121.6 million people tuned in tonight to watch the 251st and final episode of the American war comedy-drama television series M*A*S*H on CBS, a two-and-a-half hour film titled “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen.”

The episode’s plot chronicles the final days of the Korean War at the 4077th MASH; it features several storylines intended to show the war’s effects on the individuals of the unit and to bring closure to the series.

After the ceasefire goes into effect, the members of the 4077th throw a party before taking down the camp for the last time. After tear-filled goodbyes, the main characters go their separate ways, leading to the final scene of the series.

Video: 'Alan Alda discusses the final episode of MASH - EMMYTVLEGENDS.ORG'

In the United States, the episode drew 105.97 million total viewers and a total audience of 121.6 million, more than both Super Bowl XVII and the Roots miniseries.

The episode surpassed the single-episode ratings record that had been set by the Dallas episode that resolved the “Who Shot J.R.?” cliffhanger.

From 1983 until 2010, “Goodbye, Farewell and Amen” remained the most watched television broadcast in American history, passed only in total viewership (but not in ratings or share) in February 2010 by Super Bowl XLIV.

As of 2010, it stands as the most-watched finale of any television series, as well as the most-watched episode as of 2018.