‘MAS*H’ Stars Mike Farrell and Shelley Fabares Turn Heads in Rare Public Outing

On July 18, 2025, longtime couple Mike Farrell and Shelley Fabares stepped out in a sunny Burbank park, delighting fans who remember them from television’s golden age. The rare outing reignited interest in their enduring love story.
Casual and Comfortable
The 86-year-old “MAS*H” star and the 81-year-old “Coach” actress held hands as they strolled through a small crowd. Both smiled and waved warmly. Mike sported jeans, a white T-shirt, and a black baseball cap with a political message. Shelley rocked soft pink hair and a David Bowie Ziggy Stardust T-shirt.

Shelley Fabares and Mike Farrell out and about on July 18, 2025, in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
A Love Story Spanning Decades
Mike and Shelley first met in 1970 when Shelley guest-starred on “The Interns,” starring Mike. They reconnected 12 years later at a CBS affiliates convention. By then, both were divorced.
Mike’s 17-year marriage to Judy Farrell ended painfully, a struggle he detailed in his memoir, Just Call Me Mike: A Journey to Actor and Activist. He described the difficulty of telling their two children, Erin and Michael, about the divorce. Despite the pain, Mike and Judy arranged a cooperative co-parenting relationship.
Meanwhile, Shelley separated from famed record producer Lou Adler. After reconnecting with Mike, they shared coffee and his travel stories. About a year later, Mike proposed, and they married a year after MASH* ended, at the home of Shelley’s aunt, actress Nanette Fabray.
Blending Families and Overcoming Challenges
Adjusting to the new family dynamic wasn’t easy. While Mike’s children liked Shelley, they struggled with the changes. Judy had also moved on with her new husband, Joe Bratcher, and together they all sought to support the kids.
Mike recalled how his son initially found Shelley strict about chores. Through family therapy—including Judy and Joe—they worked through these tensions. Mike credits their mutual dedication to the children’s well-being for turning a difficult situation into a close, loving extended family.