Loretta Swit, Iconic “Hot Lips” Houlihan of MAS*H, Dies at 87—But There’s More to the Story

Loretta Swit, beloved for her Emmy-winning role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the long-running TV series MASH*, has died at the age of 87. Swit passed away at her Manhattan home on May 30, 2025, with her publicist confirming the likely cause as natural causes.

Swit’s portrayal of the tough, compassionate head Army nurse earned her two Emmy Awards and ten nominations during the show’s 11-season run from 1972 to 1983 She was one of only two cast members, alongside Alan Alda, to appear in both the pilot and the record-breaking finale, watched by over 100 million viewers Her character, originally introduced in the 1970 film adaptation, became a symbol of strength and complexity for women in television.

Swit was found unresponsive in her New York City apartment by her housekeeper around a.m., and was declared dead two hours later She had spoken to her publicist the previous evening and reportedly seemed well At the time of her passing, Swit was not married and had continued to be active in advocacy and the arts.

Her legacy as “Hot Lips” Houlihan endures, with MASH* consistently ranked among the greatest TV shows of all time and celebrated for its blend of humor and humanity.