When you think of classic TV that truly left a mark on American culture, MASH* often comes to mind.
And at the heart of that beloved show was Loretta Swit, who brought to life one of television’s most memorable characters.
Sadly, Loretta Swit passed away at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy that fans and colleagues will remember forever.
A Star of MASH* Passes Away
Loretta Swit, best known for playing Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the hit TV series MASH*, died peacefully at her home in New York City on Friday, according to her publicist.
Police reports indicated the cause as suspected natural causes shortly after midnight.
The Iconic Role That Defined Her Career
Swit’s portrayal of Major Houlihan earned her widespread praise and two Emmy Awards among 10 total nominations.
Over the show’s impressive 11-season run, she appeared in 240 of the 251 episodes, cementing her as a fixture on a series that millions of viewers cherished.
What Made MASH* So Special
MASH* was an adaptation of Robert Altman’s 1970 film set during the Korean War, following a group of U.S. doctors and nurses at a fictional army hospital.
The show famously blended comedy with drama, capturing audiences with its unique mix of humor and heartfelt storytelling.
The series finale, featuring Swit, drew in a staggering 105 million viewers — one of the highest audience numbers for a scripted TV episode ever.
Behind the Scenes: The Show’s Roots and Cast
The original film starred Donald Sutherland and Elliot Gould, with Sally Kellerman as Hot Lips Houlihan. For the TV adaptation, Alan Alda stepped into the Hawkeye role, Wayne Rogers played Trapper John, and Gary Burghoff continued as Radar O’Reilly — the only actor reprising his movie role.
Swit’s Thoughts on Humor and War
Loretta Swit once explained that humor was the key to MASH*’s success. She told First for Women that laughter was their way to cope with the harsh realities of war. “Laughter and humor were our defense against standing in blood and working on bodies that were young enough to be in school,” she said.
Despite the show’s comedic tone, she acknowledged the serious nature of war but praised the cast’s ability to bring humor and humanity to the story.
Awards and Recognition for an Unforgettable Role
Swit took home Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 1980 and 1982. Reflecting on the final episode of MASH*, she called it “the jewel of the crown” and considered being part of the series “a very important piece of Americana.”
The show itself won 14 Emmys, received over 100 nominations, and even earned a Peabody Award in 1975.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Loretta Jane Szwed on November 4, 1937, in Passaic, New Jersey, Swit studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York.
Before her breakthrough on MASH*, she built her resume with guest appearances on shows like Gunsmoke, Hawaii Five-O, and Mission: Impossible.
Beyond Hot Lips: Other Roles and Theatre Work
While Major Houlihan was her signature role, Swit also appeared on shows like Murder, She Wrote and The Love Boat, and acted in films including Freebie and the Bean and Race With the Devil.
She even co-starred in the 1981 pilot of Cagney & Lacey but couldn’t continue due to commitments with MASH*.
Her passion for theater was strong — she performed in Shirley Valentine over 1,000 times and was part of the touring cast of The Vagina Monologues.
She received the Sarah Siddons Award in 1991 for her contributions to Chicago theater.
Hot Lips Was More Than a Nickname to Loretta
Although fans loved the nickname “Hot Lips,” Swit wasn’t a fan herself.
She told Fox News that it felt disrespectful to her character’s rank and dedication.
“She wasn’t just a piece of anatomy,” Swit said. “She was a major in the United States Army who worked hard and was an inspiration.”
She took pride in representing military women and wanted to show the strength behind the character.
A Life Committed to Animal Rights
Outside of acting, Loretta was a devoted animal rights advocate.
A longtime vegetarian who became vegan in 1981, she supported the ASPCA and fostered dogs.
She also backed Actors and Others for Animals, a charity encouraging celebrities to help animals.
Personal Life and Final Years
Swit was married to actor Dennis Holahan from 1983 until their divorce in 1995.
She was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1989.
According to IMDb, she has one final film, Second Chances, scheduled for release.
Loretta Swit’s remarkable career and compassionate spirit have left an indelible mark on both television and those who knew her.