Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress best known for her iconic role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the hit TV series MASH, has passed away at the age of 87. Swit died at her home in New York City on Friday, reportedly from natural causes, according to her publicist.
Loretta Swit’s Legendary Career on MASH*
Swit rose to fame portraying Major Houlihan, the strong-willed head nurse of a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War. Her groundbreaking role on MASH, which aired from 1972 to 1983, cemented her as one of television’s most memorable characters.
Swit was one of the longest-serving cast members on the CBS series, alongside Alan Alda. The TV show, based on Robert Altman’s 1970 film, ran for 11 successful seasons and tackled timely issues like PTSD, sexism, and racism. Its two-and-a-half-hour series finale in 1983 drew over 100 million viewers, making it the most-watched scripted TV episode in history.
How Swit Transformed “Hot Lips” Houlihan
Initially written as a caricature, the character of “Hot Lips” Houlihan evolved into a multi-dimensional, intelligent, and resilient woman, thanks largely to Swit’s input. The feminist movement of the 1970s paralleled this transformation, and Swit worked directly with the MASH writers to bring more depth to Margaret’s character.
Swit’s Career Beyond MASH*
Born in New Jersey to Polish immigrant parents, Swit trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts before breaking into Hollywood in 1969. She appeared in popular TV shows like Gunsmoke, Hawaii Five-O, Mission Impossible, and Bonanza before her big break as “Hot Lips.”
Outside of MASH, Swit showcased her versatility on both stage and screen, earning acclaim for her intelligence and passion. Journey Gunderson, executive director of the National Comedy Center, called her portrayal of Houlihan “groundbreaking,” adding that she brought “heart, humor, and strength to one of television’s most iconic roles.”
Loretta Swit Created a Legacy That Endures
Appearing in all but 11 episodes of MASH, Swit played her role nearly four times longer than the actual Korean War lasted. Her influence on television and comedy remains unmatched, and her portrayal of Margaret Houlihan continues to inspire actors and audiences alike.
Loretta Swit’s transformative performance, combined with her dedication to meaningful storytelling, leaves behind a lasting legacy in both television and entertainment history.
