Loretta Swit, a.k.a. ‘Hot Lips’ in ‘M*A*S*H,’ Passes Away — Details

Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress best known for her role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the iconic television series MASH*, has passed away at the age of 87. She died of natural causes at her home in New York City on May 30, 2025, as confirmed by her publicist, B. Harlan Boll .FandomWire+15The US Sun+15New York Post+15New York Post+2CBS News+2BBC+2

Born Loretta Jane Szwed on November 4, 1937, in Passaic, New Jersey, Swit was the daughter of Polish immigrants. She pursued her passion for acting by studying at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and began her career on stage before transitioning to television and film. Her early television appearances included roles in popular series such as Mission: Impossible, Gunsmoke, and Mannix .Cadena SER+2Wikipedia+2EW.com+2Cadena SER+1EW.com+1New York Post+2The US Sun+2Wikipedia+2

Swit’s breakthrough came in 1972 when she was cast as Major Margaret Houlihan in MASH*, a role she would portray for the show’s entire 11-season run until 1983. Her performance earned her two Emmy Awards out of ten nominations. Swit’s portrayal of Houlihan evolved over the series, transforming from a strict, by-the-book head nurse to a more nuanced and compassionate character, reflecting the show’s shift from broad comedy to a more dramatic and character-driven narrative .BILD+7Wikipedia+7CBS News+7New York Post+4EW.com+4BILD+4KHBS+2New York Post+2EW.com+2

Beyond MASH*, Swit continued to work in television, film, and theater. She originated the role of Detective Christine Cagney in the pilot for Cagney & Lacey but was unable to continue with the series due to contractual obligations with MASH* .CBS News+5EW.com+5Wikipedia+5

In addition to her acting career, Swit was a dedicated animal rights activist. She was a vegetarian for many years before becoming a vegan in 1981 and was involved with several animal welfare organizations. In 2016, she founded the SwitHeart Animal Alliance, aiming to prevent cruelty and suffering to animals .Wikipedia+1The US Sun+1BILD

Swit was married to actor Dennis Holahan from 1983 until their divorce in 1995. The couple did not have any children .The US Sun+3BILD+3Wikipedia+3

Her passing marks the end of an era for fans of MASH* and television history. Swit’s portrayal of Major Houlihan left an indelible mark on the series and its viewers, contributing to the show’s enduring legacy. Fellow MASH* actor Jamie Farr paid tribute to her, calling her his “adopted sister” and expressing deep sorrow at her loss .The Guardian+11CBS News+11YouTube+11EW.com+10AP News+10KHBS+10EW.com+1Wikipedia+1

Swit’s legacy extends beyond her memorable performances; her advocacy for animal rights and her contributions to the arts continue to inspire. She will be remembered not only for her talent and dedication to her craft but also for her compassion and activism.

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