Loretta Swit, best known for her iconic role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the classic TV series MASH, passed away at her New York City home on May 30 at age 87.
Her representative, Harlan Boll, confirmed her time of death as 12:01 p.m., citing suspected natural causes.
Swit earned critical acclaim during her 11-year run on MASH, receiving Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy from 1974 to 1983 and winning twice in 1980 and 1982. Over the series, her character evolved from a harsh antagonist to a complex, respected figure, notably highlighted in episodes like “The Nurses” and “Bug Out.”
Born Loretta Jane Szwed in Passaic, New Jersey, Swit began performing at age seven. She trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and made her TV debut in 1969. Before MASH, she appeared in popular shows including Hawaii Five-O, Mission: Impossible, and Bonanza. Her film credits include Freebie and the Bean (1974) and Race With the Devil (1975).
After MASH ended, Swit continued her acting career with TV movies such as The Best Christmas Pageant Ever and guest roles in Murder, She Wrote and Diagnosis Murder. She was also active in theater and Broadway, appearing in productions like Same Time, Next Year and The Mystery of Edwin Drood.
A passionate animal rights advocate, Swit founded the SwitHeart Animal Alliance and was honored by multiple animal welfare organizations. Donations in her memory can be made to Actors & Others For Animals or the SwitHeart Animal Alliance.
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