Legendary TV actress Loretta Swit passes away.
Legendary Actress Loretta Swit Passes Away at 87, Once Iconic Figures of 'MASH'
On May 31, 2025, the television world mourns the demise of Loretta Swit, an actress revered for her portrayal of Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan in the groundbreaking TV series, "MASH." According to her representative, Harlan Boll, Swit died at her New York City residence at 12:01 PM on Friday. The cause of death appears to be from natural causes, as reported by "The Hollywood Reporter."
With her death, a significant piece of American television history has been lost. Swit, who captivated millions as the stern yet complex head nurse on "MASH," left an indelible mark on TV for over eleven years like few others. Starting in 1972 and ending in 1983, Swit brought to life a character that evolved from an initially one-dimensional antagonist to one of the most complex female characters in television history.
Her performances in the series did not go unnoticed. Swit was nominated for the Emmy Award ten times, bagging two wins in 1980 and 1982. She was one of only two actors alongside Alan Alda as Hawkeye Pierce to appear in both the pilot episode and the series finale. The finale, broadcast on February 28, 1983, drew nearly 106 million viewers, a record that has yet to be surpassed. The 35-second kiss shared by Swit and Alda in this episode holds the distinction of being one of the most expensive kisses in TV history due to the advertising value per minute.
In her later years, Swit largely kept away from the limelight, with her last film appearance coming in 2019. Before finding fame in "MASH," Swit had a diverse career spanning stage and screen. She made her Broadway debut in "Same Time, Next Year" and played the lead in "Mame." On television, she appeared in various movies and made an appearance on "The Muppet Show." Her career was marked by numerous awards, including two Emmy Awards and Golden Globe nominations.
Swit, born Loretta Jane Szwed in Passaic, New Jersey, to Polish immigrant parents, followed her passion for acting at a young age. She began performing on stage when she was seven and continued her acting studies at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and with Gene Frankel in Manhattan. Swit moved to Los Angeles in 1970, where she gained initial experience on television series like "Hawaii Five-O," "Mission: Impossible," and "Gunsmoke" before securing the role that would become synonymous with her name.
Off-screen, Swit was deeply involved in animal welfare. In 2016, she founded "SwitHeart Animal Alliance," a non-profit organization aimed at protecting animals. In 1999, she testified before Congress against so-called "crush videos" - productions involving the torture of small animals.
Rest in peace, Major Margaret Houlihan. You will always have a special place in the hearts of millions of "MASH" fans, forever reminding us of the unforgettable years spent in 4077th MASH Unit.
Sources: ntv.de, mau/spot
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I'm not sure I'm ready for this sudden loss of a legend who brought entertainment to millions like Loretta Swit, the actress known for her role as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan in 'MASH.' With her death, the celebrity-filled world of Hollywood seems a bit muted and less colorful.
