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Loretta Swit
Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress best known for her portrayal of Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan on the iconic television series MASH*, passed away on May 30, 2025, at the age of 87. She died at her home in New York City, likely from natural causes, according to her publicist, Harlan Boll.
🎭 A Trailblazing Career
Born Loretta Jane Szwed on November 4, 1937, in Passaic, New Jersey, Swit pursued acting against her parents' wishes. She trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and began her career in theater before transitioning to television. Swit gained early recognition with guest roles on series such as Gunsmoke, Mission: Impossible, and Mannix.
Her most notable role came in 1972 when she was cast as Major Margaret Houlihan in MASH*, a comedy-drama set during the Korean War. Swit was one of only four cast members to remain with the show for its entire 11-season run, appearing in all but 11 of the 256 episodes.
Initially portrayed as a strict, by-the-book head nurse, Swit's character evolved over time into a more nuanced and compassionate figure, reflecting the changing attitudes of the era. Her performance earned her two Emmy Awards and ten nominations, solidifying her place in television history.
🐾 Beyond the Screen
After MASH*, Swit continued to work in theater and television, including originating the role of Christine Cagney in the pilot of Cagney & Lacey. She was also a passionate animal rights advocate, serving as a spokesperson for the Humane Society and dedicating much of her later life to animal welfare causes.
Swit was married once, to actor Dennis Holahan, from 1983 to 1988, and had no children. Her legacy endures through her transformative performances and her advocacy work, inspiring generations of women and animal lovers alike. Wikipedia
📺 Remembering a Television Icon
Loretta Swit's portrayal of Major Houlihan broke new ground for female characters on television, blending strength, vulnerability, and complexity. Her contributions to MASH* helped the show become a cultural phenomenon, with its finale watched by over 100 million viewers—a record that still stands.
As fans and colleagues remember her, Swit's impact on television and her commitment to causes beyond the screen continue to resonate.
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