Loretta Swit, Emmy-Winning ‘MAS*H’ Star, Dies at 87

Loretta Swit, best known for her iconic role as Maj. Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the CBS sitcom MASH*, died at age 87 in her New York City home on May 30, 2025. Her longtime publicist confirmed the news, with her death believed to be of natural causes.

Swit starred in MASH* from 1972 to 1983, transforming her character from a one-dimensional comic figure into a strong, complex woman. She received 10 Emmy nominations and won twice, becoming a groundbreaking figure for women in television.

Co-stars Alan Alda and Mike Farrell paid tribute, recalling her talent, warmth, and deep friendships on and off screen. Beyond MASH*, Swit had a rich career in theater, film, and TV, with standout roles on Broadway and in shows like Gunsmoke and Mission: Impossible. She was also a passionate animal rights advocate and hosted the wildlife series Those Incredible Animals in the 1990s. Swit was married to actor Dennis Holahan from 1983 to 1995.

Her death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in TV history, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, talent, and pioneering strength.