Loretta Swit, beloved for her role as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan on MASH, has died at 87 in New York City due to suspected natural causes, confirmed her publicist. Acclaimed for her portrayal, Swit won two Emmys and appeared in 240 of the show’s 251 episodes across its 11 seasons. The finale was a historic event, watched by 105 million viewers, solidifying her place in TV history. Born on November 4, 1937, in Passaic, New Jersey, she studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, including acting roles in Gunsmoke, Hawaii Five-O, and Mission: Impossible*.
Swit also won the Sarah Siddons Award for her theater contributions and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1989. An advocate for animal rights, she was a vegan since 1981. Reflecting on MASH*, Swit remarked on the importance of comedy amidst the serious backdrop of war, stating it was a necessary form of defense for the cast working in challenging conditions. The series remains a significant piece of Americana, and Swit was proud to represent servicewomen through her iconic role.
FAQ
What was Loretta Swit known for?
Loretta Swit is best known for playing Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan on the iconic television series MASH*, for which she won two Emmys.
*How many episodes of MASH did Loretta Swit appear in?*
Swit appeared in 240 out of 251 episodes of MASH, contributing significantly to the show’s legacy over its 11 seasons.
When did Loretta Swit pass away?
Loretta Swit passed away on Friday, at the age of 87, in her home in New York City.
*What awards did MASH receive?* MASH won 14 Emmy Awards and earned a Peabody Award in 1975, highlighting its cultural impact and critical acclaim.
Tags
Loretta Swit, MAS*H, Major Margaret Houlihan, Emmys, television history, iconic roles, animal rights, American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Hollywood Walk of Fame, entertainment industry.
