Loretta Swit MASH fans and co-stars are mourning the loss of the beloved Emmy-winning actress, who redefined her iconic television role and left a lasting impact on audiences around the world.
Known for portraying Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the long-running CBS series “MAS*H,” Loretta Swit MASH star passed away peacefully at her home in New York City just after midnight on Friday, May 30, 2025, at the age of 87. According to authorities, her passing is believed to be from natural causes. Her longtime publicist, Harlan Boll, confirmed the news.
Loretta Swit MASH Legacy and Impact
Over the show’s 11-season run from 1972 to 1983, Swit transformed the character of Maj. Houlihan from a stereotypical figure into a deeply layered and relatable woman. The original version of the character first appeared in the 1970 film played by Sally Kellerman, but it was Swit who truly brought her to life for television.
Her portrayal challenged gender roles in media at the time, and critics widely praised her evolution of the character. Fellow actor Alan Alda, who played Hawkeye, paid tribute on X (formerly Twitter), recalling how Swit helped shape the character into a genuine, ambitious individual. He shared that the team celebrated the moment the script started referring to her character by name, Margaret, instead of “Hot Lips.”
Loretta Swit MASH Star Remembered by Cast
Mike Farrell, who played Captain B.J. Hunnicutt, posted a heartfelt Instagram tribute with a nostalgic black-and-white photo of Swit and the caption, “Loretta… 1937–2025.” In past interviews, Swit had often called Farrell a trusted confidant and cherished friend, praising his sincerity and judgment.
She also had a close bond with Alda and often described him and his family as her own. She fondly remembered dinners with his family and shared stories that reflected their deep connection.
Before gaining fame, Swit trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and worked in repertory theatre. Her earlier TV roles included appearances on “Gunsmoke,” “Mission: Impossible,” and “Hawaii Five-O.” She was eventually cast in Loretta Swit MASH, a career-defining moment that earned her 10 Emmy nominations and two wins (1980 and 1982) for Outstanding Supporting Actress.
Even after the series ended, she remained active in film, television, and stage. She starred in productions like “S.O.B.,” “Beer,” “Forest Warrior,” and appeared in more than 1,000 performances of “Shirley Valentine,” for which she won the Sarah Siddons Award in Chicago.
Swit also became a passionate animal rights advocate, hosting the series “Those Incredible Animals” and championing various causes close to her heart.
She married actor Dennis Holahan in 1983 after they met during his guest appearance on “MAS*H,” but they later divorced in 1995. The two had shared a quiet ceremony followed by a honeymoon in Egypt.
Loretta Swit’s passing closes a remarkable chapter in television history, but her contributions—both on screen and in advocacy—will continue to inspire generations to come.
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Source: www.dailypositiveinfo.com
