The entertainment world is mourning the passing of Emmy-winning actress Loretta Swit, best known for her role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan in the classic TV series MASH*. Swit passed away peacefully at her New York home on Friday at the age of 87, confirmed by her publicist Harlan Boll. While natural causes are suspected, an official coroner’s report is still pending.
A TV Legend: Loretta Swit in MASH
Loretta Swit became a household name through MASH, portraying a strong yet emotionally complex army nurse. The show aired from 1972 to 1983, following the lives of medical staff during the Korean War.
- Swit appeared in almost every episode across 11 seasons.
- She earned two Primetime Emmy Awards for her performance.
- She was nominated for four Golden Globes over her career.
The series finale aired in 1983 and drew over 106 million viewers, becoming the most-watched episode in American television history at the time.
A Role with Depth and Growth
Major Houlihan was originally portrayed as a strict, by-the-book officer. However, Swit brought a deeper, evolving personality to the role. Over time, she transformed the character into a multidimensional figure.
In a past interview, Swit said:
“Around the second or third year, I decided to try to play her as a real person, in an intelligent fashion, even if it meant hurting the jokes… She never stopped developing.”
Her balance of strength, sensitivity, and depth made Major Houlihan one of the most beloved characters in TV history.
Life Beyond MASH: Career Highlights
Born Loretta Szwed in New Jersey, she trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. Swit’s talent extended far beyond a single role, spanning stage, screen, and more.
Stage Work:
- Same Time, Next Year
- Mame
- Shirley Valentine — for which she received the Sarah Siddons Award in Chicago.
TV Appearances:
- Mission: Impossible
- The Muppet Show
- Murder, She Wrote
She also frequently appeared on game shows and variety programs, always bringing charm, wit, and grace.
Advocate for Animals and Art
Outside of acting, Swit was a passionate animal rights activist. She founded a charity focused on ending animal cruelty and was also a skilled visual artist, often donating her work to support humanitarian and environmental causes.
In a 2010 interview with Star Magazine, she shared:
“Acting is not hiding to me, it’s revealing. We give you license to feel. That’s the most important thing in the world, because when you stop feeling, that’s when you’re dead.”
Her passion for causes beyond Hollywood made her an inspiration off-screen as well.
Tributes and Final Goodbye
Her MASH* co-star Jamie Farr, who played Corporal Klinger, offered a heartfelt tribute:
“From the first time I met her, on what was supposed to be a one-day appearance on MASH*, we embraced each other—and that became a lifetime friendship. I can’t begin to express how much she will be missed.”
A Lasting Legacy
Loretta Swit leaves behind more than just a legacy of awards and performances. She helped redefine women’s roles on television, stood up for animals, and used her art to make a difference. Millions were touched by her work—both on and off the screen. Her voice, passion, and talent will continue to inspire generations to come.
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