Loretta Swit, star of 'M*A*S*H,' dead at 87
3 minute readPublished: Friday, May 30, 2025 at 8:01 pm
"M*A*S*H" Star Loretta Swit Dies at 87: Remembering "Hot Lips" and Her Legacy
Loretta Swit, beloved for her role as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan in the iconic TV series "M*A*S*H," has passed away at the age of 87. A spokesperson confirmed her death on Friday at her New York City home, with natural causes suspected.
Swit's career spanned decades and included numerous accolades, such as Emmy Awards and People's Choice Awards. Beyond "M*A*S*H," she graced Broadway stages, appearing in "Same Time, Next Year," and starred in over 25 television movies. Her filmography includes roles alongside notable actors like Sam Waterston, Barbara Eden, and James Caan.
While the nickname "Hot Lips" became synonymous with her character, Swit herself had complex feelings about it. She expressed a desire to move away from the nickname, advocating for respect for the servicewomen she portrayed. She was proud to represent women in the military and worked to honor their experiences.
Swit's passion extended beyond acting. She was a dedicated animal advocate, founding the SwitHeart Animal Alliance and creating an art book and fragrance to support animal causes. She also maintained close ties with veterans, emphasizing the importance of honoring their sacrifices and sharing their stories. Swit's commitment to veterans and animal welfare reflects her deep compassion and lasting impact.
Keywords: Loretta Swit, M*A*S*H, Hot Lips Houlihan, Margaret Houlihan, actress, death, obituary, TV series, Emmy Awards, veterans, animal welfare, SwitHeart, Broadway, entertainment news, celebrity death, Korean War, Alan Alda