Emmy-winning actress Loretta Swit, known for her role as Maj. Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan, has died at the age of 87
(WFLA) — Loretta Swit, known for her role as Maj. Margaret Houlihan in the show “M*A*S*H,” has died at the age of 87.
According to NBC News, representatives for the late actress confirmed her death Friday.
Her spokesman, Harlan Boll, said the police reported her time of death at 12:01 p.m., as reported by Variety.
It is believed she died of natural causes.
Swit had a long career in both theater and television but was best known for her work on the TV comedy-drama series “M*A*S*H,” which focused on a U.S. Mobile Army Surgical Hospital during the Korean War.
She inherited the role of Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan from actress Sally Kellerman, who played the patriotic head nurse in the original film.
In the first few seasons of the show, Swit played an antagonistic role toward protagonists Benjamin “Hawkeye” Pierce, played by Alan Alda, and “Trapper” John McIntyre, played by Wayne Rogers. However, her character eventually soften and became a beloved member of the cast, being one of four actors to stay for all 11 seasons.
Her work as Houlihan earned her two Emmys awards and 10 nominations. She was also nominated four times for the Golden Globes, according to IMDB.
Aside from her work in television, Swit was an avid animal rights activist and proud vegan.
On of her last posts on social media was a message in support of the military on Memorial Day.
“With loving gratitude they served and protected and gave their lives. Rest In Peace,” she wrote.
