Loretta Swit, renowned for her portrayal of Major Margaret Houlihan in the classic TV series M.A.S.H., passed away at the age of 87. Her publicist, Harlan Boll, announced that Swit died at her New York City home, with natural causes suspected.
As one of the longest-serving cast members alongside Alan Alda, Swit’s character in M.A.S.H.—adapted from a film directed by Robert Altman and based on Richard Hooker’s novel—redefined the image of women in sitcoms. The show aired for 11 years, from 1972 to 1983, chronicling the life at the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. Its series finale was a record-breaking event, viewed by over 100 million viewers.
Throughout its run, M.A.S.H. gained acclaim, securing a Peabody Award in 1975 and being recognised as one of the best TV shows of all time by several publications. Swit’s performance distinguished her character from the film version, portraying Houlihan with greater depth and humanity—an evolution influenced significantly by Swit, amidst the rising feminist movement of the 1970s.
In the movie, Houlihan was a caricature known as "Hot Lips," often portrayed in a negative light. Conversely, Swit’s rendition allowed her character to grow, exploring her complexities, struggles, and her gradual shift from a strict authority figure to a relatable person. Swit reflected on this transformation, asserting that she approached Houlihan as a multifaceted character, not merely as a source of jokes.
M.A.S.H. initially struggled with low ratings but garnered significant recognition and better placement in subsequent seasons, ultimately earning several Emmy nominations. Swit’s portrayal was pivotal, as she pushed for scripts that allowed for a more nuanced understanding of her character, particularly steering away from the "Hot Lips" stereotype.
In the later seasons, Swit was integral in developing plots that highlighted themes of PTSD, sexism, and evolving gender roles. She fought for accurate representations of women and took a keen interest in writing her character’s narrative. Her efforts culminated in a farewell speech during the series finale that resonated with many viewers, particularly women inspired by Houlihan’s journey.
After M.A.S.H., Swit remained active in theatre, performing in various productions, including Broadway, as well as becoming an advocate for animal welfare. She also ventured into personal writing projects, generating funds for non-profit organisations through her memoir and perfume sales.
In her earlier years, Swit was born in New Jersey to Polish immigrant parents and trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She transitioned from touring productions to notable television appearances before landing her iconic role as Houlihan. Swit will be remembered not only for her contribution to television but also for her influence on the portrayal of strong female characters in the industry.