Loretta Swit, the celebrated actress renowned for her portrayal of Major Margaret ‘Hot Lips’ Houlihan on the iconic TV series ‘M*A*S*H,’ has died at the age of 87. Her passing was confirmed by her representative, B. Harlan Boll, who stated that she died at her residence in New York City. The cause of death is believed to be natural causes.
Swit’s career spanned across stage and screen, but it was her performance on ‘M*A*S*H’ that truly defined her legacy. The show, which aired for 11 seasons from 1972 to 1983, was a groundbreaking series known for blending comedy with serious social issues set against the backdrop of the Korean War. Swit’s role as the demanding and complex head nurse earned her two Emmy Awards, along with numerous nominations, solidifying her status in television history.
During her time on the series, Swit sought to deepen her character beyond the nickname ‘Hot Lips,’ aiming to portray Houlihan as a multidimensional individual. Her dedication to her craft was evident in her performances, which resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Beyond ‘M*A*S*H,’ Swit appeared in various films, including ‘Freebie and the Bean’ and ‘S.O.B.,’ and made guest appearances on popular television shows such as ‘The Love Boat,’ ‘Murder, She Wrote,’ ‘Burke’s Law,’ and ‘Diagnosis Murder.’ Her stage work included performances in plays like ‘Same Time, Next Year,’ ‘Shirley Valentine,’ and ‘The Vagina Monologues.’
In addition to her acting career, Swit was passionate about animal rights activism. In 2016, she founded the SwitHeart Animal Alliance, which focuses on animal rescue and anti-cruelty efforts. She also authored a book titled ‘SwitHeart: The Watercolor Artistry & Animal Activism of Loretta Swit,’ published in 2017.
Loretta Szwed was born in Passaic, New Jersey, on November 4, 1937. Her legacy extends beyond her celebrated acting career to her contributions to activism and her impact on fans worldwide.
Her death marks the end of an era for fans of classic American television. As we remember Loretta Swit, we celebrate her achievements and the lasting impression she made in the world of entertainment.
