Loretta Swit Dead at 87: ‘MAS*H’ Costars Alan Alda and Mike Farrell Pay Tribute
Hollywood is mourning the loss of a television legend. Loretta Swit, best known for her iconic role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the groundbreaking series MASH*, has died at the age of 87. The Emmy-winning actress passed away peacefully at her Los Angeles home, surrounded by loved ones, according to her longtime publicist.
Swit’s death marks the end of an era for fans of MASH*, one of the most beloved TV series in history. Known for blending humor with raw emotional depth during the Korean War, the show remains a cultural touchstone decades after its final episode aired in 1983.
Her co-stars Alan Alda and Mike Farrell were among the first to share heartfelt tributes to their longtime friend and colleague.
Alan Alda, who played Hawkeye Pierce, shared on social media, “Loretta was the soul of grace, strength, and humor. She brought fierce intelligence and vulnerability to Margaret in a way that changed how women were seen on television. Offscreen, she was even more remarkable—kind, generous, and always the sharpest person in the room. I loved her, and I’ll miss her terribly.”
Mike Farrell, who portrayed B.J. Hunnicutt, echoed the sentiment in a public statement: “Loretta had a fire in her spirit and a heart full of compassion. We shared so many years, laughs, and stories together. Her commitment to her craft and to causes she cared about was unwavering. Saying goodbye to her is like losing a piece of MASH* history—but also a dear friend.”
Swit played Major Houlihan for all 11 seasons of the series, earning two Emmy Awards and critical acclaim for transforming what began as a caricature into a complex, trailblazing female character. Over time, Houlihan evolved from a strict, often comedic foil into a deeply human and independent woman—thanks in large part to Swit’s insistence on portraying her with nuance and dignity.
After MASH*, Swit continued acting in TV movies and on stage but also devoted much of her time to animal rights activism. She was a passionate advocate for rescue animals and often used her platform to promote compassionate care and adoption.
In a 2019 interview, she reflected on her time on MASH*: “We weren’t just doing a sitcom. We were telling the truth through humor, about war, about humanity, about healing. It was a gift to be part of something that mattered.”
Loretta Swit’s impact extended far beyond television screens. She was a pioneer for women in entertainment, a voice for those without one—both human and animal—and a beloved figure in countless households around the world.
She is survived by nieces, nephews, and a devoted circle of friends. Plans for a public memorial are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Rest in peace, Loretta Swit. Your legacy, like your spirit, will never be forgotten.
