Loretta Swit Dies: M*A*S*H Star Was 87
- Loretta Swit, the actress celebrated for her iconic role as Major Margaret Houlihan on the hit comedy series M*A*S*H, has died.
- Born Loretta Jane Szwed in passaic, N.J., in 1937, Swit's career spanned television, film, and theater.
- M*A*S*H, based on Robert Altman's 1970 film, aired for 11 years and remains one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed shows in television history. The show's...
Loretta Swit, the beloved MASH star known for her role as Major Margaret Houlihan, has died at the age of 87. the Emmy-winning actress, whose performance on the iconic series earned her two awards, passed away in her New York City home.Swit’s career spanned television, film, and theater, including appearances on Gunsmoke, Hawaii Five-O, and broadway productions. Her portrayal of Major houlihan resonated with audiences, contributing substantially to MASH’s enduring popularity. With MAS*H’s finale drawing over 100 million viewers, her impact on television is undeniable. From her early days at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts to her later work, Swit brought depth and nuance to her roles, earning her critical acclaim. Discover more about her life and legacy via News Directory 3, and uncover what’s next as tributes pour in.
Loretta Swit, Emmy-Winning M*A*S*H Star, Dies at 87
Loretta Swit, the actress celebrated for her iconic role as Major Margaret Houlihan on the hit comedy series
M*A*S*H, has died. She was 87. Swit passed away at her New York city home Friday, according to her publicist,
Harlan Boll, likely from natural causes. Her performance on M*A*S*H earned her two Emmy Awards for Outstanding
Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.
Born Loretta Jane Szwed in passaic, N.J., in 1937, Swit’s career spanned television, film, and theater. Before
her 1969 arrival in Hollywood, she honed her craft at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. beyond M*A*S*H,
Swit appeared in shows such as Gunsmoke, Hawaii Five-O, Mission Impossible, and Bonanza, showcasing her
versatility as an actress.
M*A*S*H, based on Robert Altman’s 1970 film, aired for 11 years and remains one of the most beloved and
critically acclaimed shows in television history. The show’s final episode drew over 100 million viewers,a
record for a scripted series. Swit’s portrayal of Major Houlihan evolved significantly from the film’s depiction,
adding depth and nuance to the character.
Swit aimed to bring authenticity to her character as the show progressed. She told Suzy Kalter,author of “The
Complete Book of M*A*S*H,” that she “decided to try to play her as a real person,in an clever fashion,even
if it meant hurting the jokes.”
In addition to her television work, Loretta Swit made her mark on Broadway, appearing in “Same Time, next Year”
in 1975 and “The Mystery of Edwin Drood” in 1986. She also participated in TV musical specials, including “The
Muppet Show” and “It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, It’s Superman.”
pic: AP
what’s next
Details regarding memorial services or tributes are expected to be announced in the coming days as friends, family
and fans remember the life and legacy of Loretta Swit.