• Loretta Swit, Emmy-winning actress best known as Major Margaret Houlihan on “M.A.S.H.,” has passed away at 87.
• Swit transformed her character from a comedic role into a powerful, multidimensional portrayal, inspiring generations of viewers.
• Beyond acting, she was a passionate advocate for animal rights, leaving a legacy of meaningful storytelling and activism.

It was a role that defined a generation of television: Major Margaret Houlihan, the no-nonsense head nurse of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War, navigating chaos with precision and undeniable charisma. Loretta Swit, who brought that character to life on “M.A.S.H.”, has died at 87, leaving behind a legacy as bold and enduring as her Emmy-winning performances.

Swit’s publicist Harlan Boll confirmed her passing at her New York City home on Friday, reportedly from natural causes. For fans, her death marks the end of an era, one defined by her ability to transform television with intelligence and depth.

The CBS series premiered in 1972 and ran for 11 seasons, blending humor and heart within the realities of war. Swit’s portrayal of Houlihan, affectionately nicknamed “Hot Lips” in the early seasons, evolved from a simple caricature into a nuanced portrait of strength and complexity—a shift that cemented Swit as a cultural icon.

From “Hot Lips” to a Beloved Character

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In Robert Altman’s 1970 film, the character of Margaret Houlihan was played by Sally Kellerman as a one-note foil. Swit, however, brought new depth to Margaret. By the third season of “M.A.S.H.,” Swit worked with writers to expand her role, creating a more layered character that balanced ambition and vulnerability.

“Margaret was a character in constant flux,” Swit once told author Suzy Kalter in “The Complete Book of M.A.S.H.” “She never stopped developing.”

Swit’s push for storylines that delved deeper into Margaret’s character elevated “M.A.S.H.” beyond its comedic roots, transforming it into one of the most critically acclaimed TV series of all time. Rolling Stone ranked it No. 25 on its list of greatest shows, while Time Out placed it at No. 34.

The series finale, which aired on February 28, 1983, drew over 100 million viewers, making it the most-watched scripted episode in television history. Margaret’s closing arc—choosing to leave the Army for civilian life—was bittersweet for Swit, who once said she felt her character’s next chapter would have taken her to new challenges. She proudly delivered the poignant farewell speech: “It’s been an honor and privilege to have worked with you.”

A Star Beyond the 4077th

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Beyond “M.A.S.H.,” Swit’s career was marked by versatility and passion. She made her Broadway debut in 1975’s “Same Time, Next Year” and later starred in productions like “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” and “Mame.” On television, she landed the title role in “Cagney & Lacey”’s pilot, though she ultimately chose to stay with “M.A.S.H.” when the series was picked up.

Her off-screen life was equally impactful. A vocal animal rights advocate, Swit dedicated her later years to causes close to her heart, selling her SwitHeart perfume and memoir through her official site, with proceeds benefiting animal welfare charities. Her marriage to actor Dennis Holahan, whom she met on the “M.A.S.H.” set, ended in 1995, but the two remained close.

A Lasting Legacy

Swit’s portrayal of Margaret Houlihan inspired generations of viewers, including women who pursued careers in nursing and medicine. “I still get letters from women who became nurses because of Margaret,” she said in 2023. The character remains a benchmark for exploring depth and complexity on television, a testament to Swit’s dedication to creating a character with heart and substance.

Her death reminds us of the enduring power of storytelling. From the groundbreaking humor of “M.A.S.H.” to her advocacy work in later years, Loretta Swit leaves behind a legacy of meaningful entertainment and inspiration.

What are your favorite memories of Loretta Swit’s career? Share your thoughts and join the conversation. Follow The Dupree Report on WhatsApp for exclusive updates and deeper stories about Hollywood’s most beloved icons.

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