Millions of Americans are heartbroken over the passing of Emmy-winning actress Loretta Swit, who portrayed the strong-willed Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the beloved series M*A*S*H.
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Her character represented traditional values and military dedication during a time when America proudly stood for something greater.
Swit passed away over the weekend in New York City, with her publicist confirming the cause was likely natural causes.
The daughter of Polish immigrants, Swit brought grit and determination to one of television’s most iconic roles, appearing in 240 of the 251 episodes of the groundbreaking series about Army doctors and nurses during the Korean War.
Born Loretta Jane Szwed in Passaic, New Jersey, Swit studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts before working her way to Hollywood.
Her portrayal of Major Houlihan earned her two Emmy Awards and a total of 10 nominations throughout the series’ run, cementing her place in television history.
The series finale of M*A*S*H in 1983 drew over 100 million viewers, making it the most-watched television episode in history.
Swit and Alan Alda were the only actors to appear in nearly every episode of the series’ 11-year run.
“One of the things I liked, with Loretta’s prodding, was every time I had a chance to write for her character, we’d get away from the Hot Lips angle and find out more about who Margaret was. She became more of a real person,” Alda commented in 2018.
Unlike many of today’s Hollywood elites, the late actress remained humble and dedicated to causes she believed in.
She was a passionate animal welfare advocate, founding the SwitHeart Animal Alliance to protect and care for animals.
Additionally, M*A*S*H tackled serious issues like patriotism, service, and sacrifice with humor and heart.
Swit’s character evolved from a strict military nurse to a complex woman who maintained her traditional values while earning respect in a predominantly male environment, all without pushing radical feminist talking points.
Loretta Swit, who won two Emmy Awards playing Maj. Margaret Houlihan, the demanding head nurse of a behind-the-lines surgical unit on the pioneering hit TV series “M.A.S.H.,” has died. She was 87. https://t.co/kc3Llr6qTA
— News 4 Buffalo (@news4buffalo) May 31, 2025
Moreover, she continued performing long after M*A*S*H ended, appearing in over 1,000 performances of the play “Shirley Valentine” and hosting documentaries about wildlife conservation.
She returned to the screen in 2019 in the faith-based film “Play the Flute,” showing her willingness to support traditional values in her work.
Her M*A*S*H co-star Jamie Farr, who played Corporal Klinger, called Swit his “adopted sister” and expressed deep sorrow at her passing.
Their lifelong friendship reflects the kind of lasting bonds formed during the golden age of television, when shows brought Americans together.
Donations in her memory can be made to Actors & Others for Animals or SwitHeart Animal Alliance, continuing her legacy of compassionate conservatism.
As the country remembers Loretta Swit, it also mourns the loss of an era when television portrayed American military service with respect and patriotism.
