NEW YORK CITY — Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress beloved for her iconic portrayal of Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the groundbreaking television series MASH*, has died at the age of 87. Her publicist, Harlan Boll, confirmed she passed away Friday at her home in New York City https://bre

NEW YORK CITY —Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress beloved for her iconic portrayal of Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the groundbreaking television series, has died at the age of 87. Her publicist, Harlan Boll, confirmed she passed away Friday at her home in Los Angeles due to natural causes Swit rose to national fame in the 1970s for her role on, the long-running and critically acclaimed series set during the Korean War. 

Her portrayal of Major Houlihan, a fiercely competent, sometimes stern, yet deeply human Army nurse, earned her two Primetime Emmy Awards and cemented her place in television history. Swit appeared in nearly every episode of the show’s 11-season run, bringing both comedic timing and emotional depth to her character.

Born in Passaic, New Jersey, in 1937, Swit began her career on stage, performing in regional theater and on Broadway before transitioning to television. Her early TV work included guest spots on shows like *Hawaii Five-O* and *Gunsmoke*. But it was that made her a household name and a trailblazer for strong female characters in prime-time television.

Beyond acting, Swit was an outspoken animal rights advocate, authoring a book on rescue animals and working closely with numerous charitable organizations. She also toured nationally in theatrical productions well into her later years, remaining a vibrant presence on stage and screen.

Tributes poured in from former co-stars and fans alike, with many remembering her as both a brilliant performer and a kind, passionate woman off-screen. Alan Alda, her longtime co-star, said in a statement, “Loretta’s warmth and wit touched everyone she met. She brought such humanity to Houlihan, and to the world.”Loretta Swit leaves behind a legacy of resilience, compassion, and unforgettable artistry.