Loretta Swit, M*A*S*H Star and Animal Advocate, Dies at 87

Loretta Swit, the spirited actress who brought Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan to life in the iconic TV series M*A*S*H, passed away peacefully at her New York City home on Friday at the age of 87. Her spokesperson confirmed the cause was likely natural, marking the end of a remarkable career that blended sharp wit, heartfelt advocacy, and an enduring connection to her audience.

Swit’s portrayal of the tough yet vulnerable Major Houlihan earned her two Emmy Awards, a People’s Choice Award, and a slew of other honors, including the Genie Award and the Jean Golden Halo Award. With 10 Emmy nominations and four Golden Globe nods, her talent shone brightly across stage and screen. Most recently, she was celebrated with her third Career Achievement Award, a testament to her lasting impact.

Beyond M*A*S*H, Swit’s career was a vibrant tapestry. She graced Broadway in Same Time, Next Year and took on the lead in Mame, captivating audiences in New York and Pennsylvania. Her television roles included over 25 movies, from Games Mother Never Taught You with Sam Waterston to A Killer Among Friends with Patty Duke. She even shared the screen with Kermit and Miss Piggy on The Muppet Show. Her film credits were equally diverse, starring alongside legends like Peter Fonda in Race With the Devil and Julie Andrews in S.O.B..

Swit’s passion extended far beyond acting. A fierce advocate for animals, she founded the SwitHeart Animal Alliance, dedicating herself to ending cruelty and supporting wildlife preservation. Her art book, SwitHeart, showcased 65 of her vibrant paintings, with all proceeds fueling animal welfare causes. She even launched a fragrance, SwitHeart, to further her mission.

In a 2023 interview, Swit reflected on the nickname "Hot Lips," which she fought to move beyond. “She wasn’t just a punchline,” she said. “Margaret was a major in the U.S. Army, a woman of rank and grit. I wanted her to inspire, to honor the servicewomen who gave so much.” Her advocacy led the M*A*S*H writers to gradually phase out the nickname, a victory for Swit’s respect for real-life military women.

Swit’s connection to veterans was profound. She worked closely with World War II veterans, listening to their stories and amplifying their struggles. “These heroes wrote a blank check to our country, up to their lives,” she once said, quoting a passage that deeply moved her. Her encounters with servicemen and women fueled her lifelong mission to honor their sacrifices, forging friendships she cherished deeply.

The legacy of M*A*S*H, set during the Korean War and running from 1972 to 1983, remains monumental, with its finale drawing over 60% of U.S. households. Swit’s role not only brought her fame but opened doors to meaningful connections with those who served. “Playing Margaret introduced me to their real stories,” she said. “That’s been the greatest gift.”