🌟 Loretta Swit: The Legendary Actress Behind "Hot Lips" Houlihan
“Acting is not just a profession; for me, it's an expression of compassion, depth, and truth.” – Loretta Swit
🕊️ A Star Remembered
Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress best known for her role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the iconic TV series M*A*S*H, passed away on May 30, 2025, at the age of 87. Her death marks the end of a powerful era in television history.
🎭 Early Life and Career
Born on November 4, 1937, in Passaic, New Jersey, to Polish immigrant parents, Loretta Swit developed a love for performance early in life. She studied acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City and worked as a secretary while pursuing roles on stage and television.
Her breakthrough came in the early 1970s when she was cast in the CBS series M*A*S*H, which aired from 1972 to 1983.
🌟 The Role of a Lifetime: Major Houlihan
Swit portrayed Major Houlihan across all 11 seasons of M*A*S*H, appearing in over 240 episodes. Her character evolved from a strict, by-the-book nurse into a deeply complex, intelligent, and compassionate woman. Swit’s portrayal broke stereotypes and redefined what female roles on television could be during that era.
🏆 Awards:
2 Primetime Emmy Awards
10 Emmy nominations
1 Golden Globe win (out of 4 nominations)
🐾 Passion Beyond the Screen
Outside of her acting career, Loretta Swit was a fierce advocate for animal rights. She founded the SwitHeart Animal Alliance in 2016, dedicating her life to promoting compassion for all creatures. She also authored the book SwitHeart: The Watercolour Artistry & Animal Activism of Loretta Swit, combining her love of painting with her advocacy.
🎭 Theater and Later Work
After M*A*S*H, Swit continued to perform in theater productions such as Shirley Valentine and Same Time, Next Year. She made guest appearances in shows like Cagney & Lacey and continued to be active in the entertainment industry well into her later years.
💬 Remembering Her Legacy
Loretta Swit wasn’t just a beloved TV star—she was a pioneer for strong female characters, a passionate humanitarian, and an enduring symbol of grace and dedication. Her work continues to inspire actors, animal lovers, and fans around the world.
