Emmy-Winning Star Loretta Swit, Famous for MAS*H’s Houlihan, Passes Away at 87

NEW YORK — Loretta Swit, celebrated for her role as Maj. Margaret Houlihan in the iconic TV series “M.A.S.H.,” has passed away at the age of 87. According to her publicist Harlan Boll, Swit died Friday at her New York City home, likely due to natural causes.

Swit, who starred alongside Alan Alda, was one of the longest-serving cast members on the show, which ran from 1972 to 1983. “M.A.S.H.” centered around the daily lives of medical personnel at the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War. The finale, which aired on February 28, 1983, remains one of the most-watched episodes in television history, attracting over 100 million viewers.

Critically acclaimed, “M.A.S.H.” earned a Peabody Award in 1975 for its ability to blend humor with poignant themes about war. It ranked No. 25 on Rolling Stone’s list of the best TV shows ever and secured a spot at No. 34 on Time Out’s list.

In the original film by Robert Altman, Houlihan was portrayed as a more one-dimensional character, but Swit transformed her into a more complex figure. She challenged the negative stereotypes surrounding women in her role. “I wanted to portray her as a real person, not just a caricature,” Swit explained in an interview.

Initially, “M.A.S.H.” struggled in ratings, finishing its first season in 46th place. However, after receiving nine Emmy nominations, the show found its footing alongside the popular sitcom “All in the Family,” eventually winning the Emmy for Best Comedy in 1974.

Throughout its run, the series tackled essential themes such as PTSD, sexism, and racism, with Swit’s character evolving significantly. “Each trauma she faced was incorporated into her growth,” Swit noted, emphasizing her commitment to portraying realism.

Swit also played a pivotal role in developing storyline arcs, advocating for deeper exploration of her character’s life and experiences. “Every time I got to write for her, I moved away from the ‘Hot Lips’ angle,” Alda commented, highlighting Swit’s influence on scripting.

In the series finale, Houlihan’s journey concludes with her contemplating a return to America, somewhat contrary to Swit’s interpretation of her character’s trajectory. Despite this, she thrived in crafting a meaningful farewell address to her fellow nurses, showcasing both her acting skill and commitment to her character.

After “M.A.S.H.,” Swit remained active in the theater and television, appearing in various productions. She also became an advocate for animal welfare, using her platform to support related causes. Swit was married to actor Dennis Holahan from 1983 until their divorce in 1995.

Born in Passaic, New Jersey, Swit attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts before making her mark in Hollywood. Her impressive career features a blend of theater and television roles, solidifying her legacy in the entertainment industry.

As the world reflects on her contributions, Loretta Swit’s portrayal of Margaret Houlihan will continue to inspire future generations.