Loretta Swit, the Emmy-winning actress famous for her role as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan on the groundbreaking series M*A*S*H, has passed away at home in New York. Her publicist Harlan Boll confirmed the news, stating she died of natural causes on Friday. Swit captivated audiences during the show's impressive 11-year run from 1974 to 1983, portraying a strong yet relatable Army nurse.
M*A*S*H is considered one of the greatest television shows, with its finale drawing a record-breaking 106 million viewers. Throughout her career, Swit earned multiple award nominations and became synonymous with the series. The show's blend of humor with themes addressing significant issues like racism, sexism, and PTSD resonated with audiences and remains relevant today.
Beyond M*A*S*H, Swit had an extensive career in television, film, and theater, including notable appearances on Broadway. She once said, “Acting is not hiding to me, it's revealing,” highlighting her belief in the power of emotional connection through performance. As fans remember her contributions, tributes also surfaced for M*A*S*H co-creator Gene Reynolds, showcasing the profound impact this show and its stars left on the industry.
