Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress renowned for her portrayal of Major Margaret J “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the iconic CBS series M*A*S*H, has passed away at the age of 87. She died of natural causes in her New York City home on May 30, as confirmed by her publicist, Harlan Boll.
Swit’s career spanned over several decades, culminating in a series of accolades including two Primetime Emmy Awards and multiple nominations for Golden Globes. She was celebrated not only for her role on M*A*S*H from 1972 to 1983 but also for her guest appearances on popular shows such as Hawaii Five-O, Gunsmoke, and Batman: The Animated Series.
In addition to her work on television, Swit had a rich film career, featuring in productions like The Best Christmas Pageant Ever and Race With the Devil. Her final film credit, Play the Flute, was released in 2019, and she was slated to appear in an upcoming project titled Second Chances, still in development.
Swit’s journey into acting was rooted in her childhood love for films, often shared with her mother, and she remained devoted to her craft throughout her life, stating in a 1979 interview that her focus was on her career rather than starting a family. She married actor Dennis Holahan in 1983, but the couple divorced in 1995, and Swit did not have children.
Beyond her extraordinary contributions to the performing arts, Swit was also a passionate advocate for animal rights and expressed her creative side through painting. In 2017, she published a book titled Switheart: The Watercolour Artistry & Animal Activism of Loretta Swit, with proceeds benefiting various animal welfare organizations.
In recognizing her impact and influence, Swit received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1989, a testament to her outstanding contributions to the industry.
Loretta Swit leaves behind a legacy marked by her talent, compassion, and dedication to the arts and animal welfare. Her work continues to resonate with fans and admirers, ensuring that her memory and contributions will not be forgotten.