Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress beloved for her portrayal of Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on MASH*, passed away on May 30, 2025, at the age of 87. Her death not only marks the loss of a legendary actress but also signals the end of an era for millions who connected with her character and her compassion, both on and off the screen.
Swit’s passing has drawn heartfelt tributes from her former castmates and admirers across the entertainment and animal rights communities. For many, she wasn’t just a television star—she was a pioneer, a friend, an activist, and a symbol of how characters and real people alike can grow and inspire.
When Loretta Swit joined MASH* in 1972, she inherited a role that might have remained a one-dimensional caricature: a tough, no-nonsense Army nurse, defined mostly by her looks and a salacious nickname, “Hot Lips.” That moniker was a relic of the 1970 film and the early days of the show, where Margaret Houlihan was initially portrayed as a rigid military figure often reduced to a punchline.
But Swit had other plans.
Alan Alda, who portrayed Hawkeye Pierce, remembered how Swit created her character, rather than simply playing what was written. In a tribute posted to X, Alda wrote, “More than acting her part, she created it. She worked hard in showing the writing staff how they could turn the character from a one-joke sexist stereotype into a real person—with real feelings and ambitions.”
Through her insistence on authenticity and respect, Swit led the transformation of Major Houlihan from a caricature into one of the most complex, resilient, and empathetic characters on television. Houlihan evolved into a leader, a feminist figure, and a respected officer who demanded to be taken seriously.
Swit’s work earned her 10 Emmy nominations, and she won twice, in 1980 and 1982. But perhaps even more impressive than the awards was the personal victory in redefining her character. She once spoke with pride about convincing writers to retire the “Hot Lips” nickname. “We celebrated the day the script came out listing her character not as Hot Lips, but as Margaret,” Alda recalled. It was a small change with monumental meaning—an actress demanding that her character be seen as a full human being.
Though MASH* ended in 1983, the relationships Swit formed with her co-stars endured. They were not just professional colleagues—they were family.
Jamie Farr, who played Corporal Maxwell Q. Klinger, shared an especially deep bond with Swit. In a moving tribute to USA TODAY, Farr, now 90, described her as his “adopted sister.” Their first meeting was on what was supposed to be a one-day appearance for Farr. “From the first time I met her, we embraced each other. That became a lifetime friendship,” he said. “I dearly loved Loretta. As close as family can get.”
This sense of enduring closeness wasn’t unique to Farr. Mike Farrell, who joined the cast in Season 4 as B.J. Hunnicutt, paid tribute by sharing a black-and-white photo of Swit on Instagram. He didn’t need words to communicate the depth of their connection—the image said everything. It was a quiet, powerful gesture from a man who had shared one of television’s most iconic shows with her.
Gary Burghoff (Radar O’Reilly), Mike Farrell, Jamie Farr, Alan Alda, and Swit had remained close for decades, often appearing together at conventions and reunions. In a 2017 interview with Fox News, Swit said, “We see each other quite frequently. Every time we lose a comrade, it’s a body blow. These aren’t casual acquaintances from years ago. This is my family.”
Indeed, the cast of MASH* became more than actors who shared a script—they became a surrogate family, grieving together over the years as fellow cast members passed, and celebrating each other’s triumphs and lives.
Off-screen, Loretta Swit lived her life with just as much purpose and intensity as she brought to her acting. For decades, she was a tireless advocate for animal rights and welfare. A proud vegan, she dedicated her time, voice, and resources to improving the lives of animals around the world.
Lisa Lange, vice president at People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), called Swit “a major champion for all animals.” In her statement, Lange wrote, “While Loretta Swit may have been known to most as Major Margaret Houlihan, she was known to PETA as a major champion for all animals. The world has lost a kind soul and animals a true friend.”
Swit was deeply involved in advocacy groups like PETA and Actors and Others for Animals. Jo Anne Worley, a fellow board member, noted that Swit was enthusiastically involved in recent meetings and initiatives, right up until her final days. “Loretta dedicated her life to improving the lives of all animals. We will all miss her joyous presence.”
Swit’s devotion to animals wasn’t just a cause—it was a way of life. She believed deeply in compassion, extending it to the voiceless and vulnerable. Her advocacy, combined with her artistry, made her a unique presence in Hollywood: a woman driven by passion, principle, and empathy.
While MASH* was her most famous role, Swit’s career spanned stage and screen, with accomplishments across genres and decades. She starred in numerous television films and stage productions, including The Vagina Monologues, Shirley Valentine, and Same Time, Next Year, showcasing her versatility and stage presence.
Even later in life, she continued to perform, paint, and advocate. She published a book of her watercolor paintings, with proceeds going toward animal welfare. She launched the SwitHeart Animal Alliance, a nonprofit that supported shelters and emergency animal services. Every dollar she earned from her art went toward helping animals in crisis.
Her creativity wasn’t limited to performance. She developed her own fragrance, SwitHeart, and a jewelry line—again, donating the proceeds to animal charities. She turned every facet of her life into a chance to give.
Loretta Swit stood out not just because of her talent, but because of her integrity. She was among the first actresses on network television to push back against sexist tropes, to insist that her character be treated with dignity, and to stand up for her beliefs—even when they weren’t fashionable.
It’s hard to overstate how radical that was in the 1970s. In an era when women on TV were often defined by their relationships to men, Swit pushed for Margaret Houlihan to be defined by her skill, strength, and vulnerability. She fought for better writing, more complex emotional arcs, and a narrative that honored women’s intelligence and autonomy.
In doing so, she helped pave the way for stronger female roles in television and film. She inspired not only her colleagues but generations of actors who followed.
Alan Alda summed it up beautifully: “Loretta made the most of her time here.” That phrase, simple and heartfelt, carries so much truth. She poured her life into her work, her causes, her relationships, and her beliefs.
Swit didn’t just play a nurse on a fictional battlefield. She was a healer in real life—healing animals, healing public perception of women in leadership, healing the hearts of fans who saw in her a mirror of strength and warmth.
In the end, perhaps her greatest legacy isn’t the awards or the fame, but the way she made people feel. She was unapologetically passionate, fiercely loyal, and relentlessly kind.
The world may remember her as “Hot Lips” Houlihan, but to those who knew her, loved her, and were moved by her work, she was always just Loretta—a woman who stood tall, spoke truth, and lived with an open heart.
Loretta Swit’s passing is a profound loss, but her legacy is immortal. Her performances will continue to inspire, her advocacy will ripple into future generations, and her memory will be cherished by all who were lucky enough to experience her presence—on screen or off.
We mourn her passing, but more importantly, we celebrate her life. A life of purpose, of passion, and above all, of love.
Rest in peace, Loretta Swit. You made the world brighter.
