Loretta Swit, Emmy-winner who played Houlihan on TV series 'M.A.S.H.,' dies at 87

Published: Friday, May 30, 2025 at 7:40 pm

**Loretta Swit, 'M.A.S.H.' Star, Dies at 87**

Beloved actress Loretta Swit, best known for her Emmy-winning portrayal of Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan in the iconic television series *M.A.S.H.*, has passed away at the age of 87. Swit died Friday at her home in New York City, likely from natural causes, according to her publicist.

Swit's role as the head nurse of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War made her a household name. She was one of the longest-serving cast members alongside Alan Alda on the groundbreaking CBS show, which aired for 11 seasons from 1972 to 1983. The series, adapted from Robert Altman's 1970 film and Richard Hooker's novel, captivated audiences with its blend of humor and poignant commentary on war. The finale, a two-and-a-half-hour special, remains the most-watched episode of any scripted series in television history, drawing over 100 million viewers.

Swit's portrayal of Houlihan evolved significantly from the film version, where the character was initially depicted as a one-dimensional caricature. Swit, with her influence on the scriptwriters, helped transform Houlihan into a more complex and relatable character, exploring themes of feminism, PTSD, sexism, and racism. Her dedication to portraying Houlihan as a "real person" resonated with viewers and contributed to the show's enduring legacy. *M.A.S.H.* earned critical acclaim, including a Peabody Award and recognition as one of the best TV shows of all time by publications like *Rolling Stone* and *Time Out*. Swit's impact on the show and her commitment to her character cemented her place in television history.

Keywords: Loretta Swit, M.A.S.H., Major Margaret Houlihan, Hot Lips Houlihan, Alan Alda, CBS, Korean War, TV series, Emmy Award, obituary, actress, television, 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital, comedy, drama, finale, best TV shows, Peabody Award

Full Story