Loretta Swit, the acclaimed actress best known for her iconic role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the groundbreaking television series “MAS*H,” passed away at the age of 87 on May 30, 2025, in New York City, according to confirmation from her longtime publicist, Harlan Boll.
Swit died peacefully at her home, and early indications suggest natural causes, though no additional details have been released publicly as of this writing. Her passing marks the end of an era in American television, with fans and colleagues paying tribute to a career that spanned decades across stage, screen, and activism.
A Defining Role in Television History
Loretta Swit’s most famous role came in 1972, when she joined the cast of the CBS series “MAS*H,” based on the 1970 feature film. Taking over the role of Major Margaret Houlihan from Sally Kellerman, Swit redefined the character over the show’s 11-season run, which lasted until 1983.
Initially portrayed as a stereotypical caricature, Major Houlihan evolved into a richly layered, assertive, and independent woman under Swit’s interpretation. Her performance earned critical acclaim and helped change the perception of female characters on television during the 1970s and 1980s. [Source: Smithsonian Magazine]
Swit was nominated for 10 Emmy Awards for her role on “MAS*H,” winning twice in 1980 and 1982 for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series. Her success made her one of the most recognized and respected actresses on television at the time. [Source: Emmys.com]
Tributes from Co-stars and Friends
Following news of her passing, tributes poured in from fans and fellow actors. Alan Alda, who portrayed Captain Hawkeye Pierce on “MAS*H,” described Swit as a passionate, intelligent, and gifted performer. He credited her with helping transform her character into one of the show’s emotional anchors.
Mike Farrell, who played Captain B.J. Hunnicutt, shared a heartfelt remembrance on social media, posting a black-and-white photo of Swit alongside the caption: “Loretta…1937–2025.” [Source: Official social media accounts]
Swit maintained lifelong friendships with many of her co-stars. In previous interviews, she spoke warmly of her bond with Alda and Farrell, referring to the cast and crew as a family that extended beyond the set. Her relationships with her colleagues were marked by mutual respect, deep friendship, and a shared sense of purpose.
Career Beyond “MAS*H”
Before her breakout role, Swit trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and appeared in repertory theater, where she honed her acting skills. She took on roles in productions like “Mame”, “The Odd Couple”, and “Any Wednesday.”
On television, she appeared in several prominent series throughout the 1960s and 70s, including “Gunsmoke,” “Mission: Impossible,” “Mannix,” and “Hawaii Five-O.” Her early work showcased her versatility and helped pave the way for her casting in “MAS*H.”
Following the conclusion of the series in 1983, Swit continued acting in both film and television. Her credits included:
- “S.O.B.” (1981)
- “Whoops Apocalypse” (1986)
- “Beer” (1985)
- “Forest Warrior” (1996)
She also appeared in television films such as:
- “The Execution” (1985)
- “Miracle at Moreaux” (1985)
- “Dreams of Gold: The Mel Fisher Story” (1986)
Her stage work remained a constant, with performances in “Same Time, Next Year” on Broadway and more than 1,000 productions of “Shirley Valentine,” for which she received the Sarah Siddons Award in Chicago.
In 2003, she starred in a revival of “Mame,” and she also appeared in “The Vagina Monologues” during national tours. Swit’s enduring love for the stage remained evident throughout her career.
Animal Advocacy and Humanitarian Efforts
Outside of acting, Loretta Swit was a lifelong animal rights advocate. Her activism extended beyond public appearances to include hands-on involvement with numerous organizations.
She was affiliated with groups such as:
- Actors and Others for Animals
- Humane Society of the United States
- People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
In 2017, Swit published “SwitHeart: The Watercolour Artistry & Animal Activism of Loretta Swit,” a coffee-table book featuring her paintings, with proceeds supporting animal rescue efforts.
Her commitment to animal welfare was recognized by multiple humanitarian organizations. She frequently used her public platform to promote compassion, responsible pet ownership, and wildlife conservation. [Source: SwitHeartAnimalAlliance.org]
Personal Life and Marriage
Swit married actor Dennis Holahan in 1983 after they met on the set of “MAS*H,” where Holahan appeared in a guest role. The wedding was a private ceremony in California, attended by close friends and co-stars. The couple honeymooned in Egypt, a destination chosen for its history and cultural significance. They later divorced in 1995, but remained amicable.
Though she never had children, Swit spoke often about the importance of nurturing family connections and supporting young people in the arts. She was known for mentoring aspiring actors and offering guidance to those entering the entertainment industry.
Legacy of a Television Icon
Loretta Swit’s portrayal of Margaret Houlihan helped redefine women’s roles in television comedies and dramas. She brought intelligence, strength, and vulnerability to a character that evolved far beyond its original intent, making her performance a landmark in television history.
Her impact extended beyond Hollywood. Through her advocacy work, mentorship, and dedication to the performing arts, she left a lasting impression not only on her audience but on the world around her.
Swit remained active in the entertainment industry into her later years, with her final known film appearance in the 2019 Christian drama “Play the Flute.” In 1992, she also hosted the wildlife-themed educational series “Those Incredible Animals,” which aired for five seasons.
Conclusion: A Life Well Lived
Loretta Swit’s death marks the end of a remarkable journey that spanned over five decades of television, theater, and activism. Her legacy lives on through her memorable performances, her tireless dedication to animal welfare, and the many lives she touched both on and off-screen.
As tributes continue to pour in, fans and colleagues alike remember a woman who brought grace, humor, and conviction to every role—and every cause—she championed.
Sources:
- Emmys.com – Loretta Swit Award History
- Royal Television Society
- The New York Times Obituaries
- SwitHeart Animal Alliance
- Smithsonian Magazine – MAS*H Retrospective
- [Official press releases via Harlan Boll, publicist]
