Loretta Swit was a legendary American actress best known for her portrayal of Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on the television series MASH*. She was born on November 4, 1937, in Passaic, New Jersey, and passed away on May 30, 2025, at 87 years old.
Her acting career began in theater before she transitioned to television and film. Over her decades-long career, Loretta Swit earned acclaim for her charm, talent, and commitment to her craft. She was not just an actress but also a humanitarian, using her platform to advocate for animal rights and promote compassion.
Her name continues to resonate among fans of classic TV, proving that her impact goes far beyond her role on MASH.
Biography Table of Loretta Swit
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Loretta Jane Szwed (professionally known as Loretta Swit) |
| Date of Birth | November 4, 1937 |
| Place of Birth | Passaic, New Jersey, USA |
| Date of Death | May 30, 2025 |
| Age at Death | 87 years |
| Zodiac Sign | Scorpio |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m) |
| Weight | Not publicly available |
| Parents | Lester Szwed (father), Nellie Kassack (mother) |
| Siblings | Robert Szwed |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Dennis Holahan (1983–1995) |
| Children | None |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Polish-American |
| Education | Pope Pius XII High School; Katharine Gibbs School; American Academy of Dramatic Arts |
| Profession | Actress, Author, Artist, Activist |
| Notable Work | MASH* (Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan) |
| Awards | Two Emmy Awards (1980, 1982) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $4–5 million |
| Religion | Christian |
| Hobbies | Painting, Reading, Traveling, Animal Welfare |
| Social Media | Fan pages on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter |
| Cause of Death | Natural causes (as reported by family) |
What is Loretta Swit Net Worth?
The focus keyword “Loretta Swit net worth” reflects her lifelong financial success and career achievements.
At the time of her death in 2025, Loretta Swit net worth was estimated at $4 million, though some outlets suggest it could have reached $5 million. Her wealth came from her acting career, particularly her earnings from MASH*, along with guest roles, stage performances, and royalties from syndicated reruns.
How She Earned Her Fortune
- Television Salary: Early in her MASH career, Swit earned about $12,500 per episode, rising to nearly $80,000 per episode by the final seasons.
- Royalties and Residuals: The continued popularity of MASH* through syndication brought steady income long after the series ended.
- Stage and Guest Appearances: She acted in various TV shows, plays, and movies, each adding to the overall Loretta Swit net worth.
- Books and Art: Swit was an accomplished painter and author. Her artistic pursuits and published works also contributed to her earnings.
Though her fortune may appear modest compared to modern TV stars, the consistent growth of Loretta Swit net worth over five decades shows her financial discipline and commitment to meaningful work.
Why is Loretta Swit Famous?
Loretta Swit became a global icon through her role on MASH, which aired from 1972 to 1983. Her portrayal of Major “Hot Lips” Houlihan, a strong yet compassionate nurse, made her a household name.
She appeared in all 11 seasons of the show, one of only a few cast members to do so. The performance earned her two Emmy Awards in 1980 and 1982. Swit’s on-screen chemistry with co-stars Alan Alda and Jamie Farr helped MASH* become one of the most beloved shows in television history.
Beyond MASH, Swit appeared in popular TV shows such as Hawaii Five-O, Mission: Impossible, and Gunsmoke. She also had success in theater, performing in Broadway and touring productions.
Her influence extended off-screen as well, through her humanitarian efforts and her inspiring message of kindness and strength.
What is Loretta Swit Age?
Loretta Swit was 87 years old when she passed away in May 2025. She was born on November 4, 1937, under the Scorpio zodiac sign.
Her age reflected not only her longevity but also her sustained relevance. Even in her 80s, she participated in interviews, charity events, and art exhibitions, proving her vitality and enduring passion for life.
Loretta Swit Biography
Early Life
Loretta Jane Szwed, later known as Loretta Swit, was born to Polish-American parents in Passaic, New Jersey. Her father, Lester Szwed, worked as a salesman and upholsterer, while her mother, Nellie Kassack, was a homemaker.
Growing up, Loretta developed an interest in performing arts early. She was known for her confidence and creativity, qualities that would later define her career.
Education
Loretta graduated from Pope Pius XII High School in 1955. She was an active student, excelling in theater, cheerleading, and basketball.
After high school, she attended the Katharine Gibbs School in Montclair, where she graduated in 1957. Later, she moved to New York City and studied acting with Gene Frankel, one of the most respected drama teachers of the era.
She further honed her skills at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where she developed the poise and presence that made her a stage favorite before her TV success.
Family
Loretta came from a close-knit Polish-American family. Her parents, Lester and Nellie, instilled in her strong moral values and work ethic. She had an older brother, Robert Szwed, who remained close throughout her life.
Loretta married actor Dennis Holahan in 1983. Their marriage lasted until 1995, but they remained amicable after the divorce. The couple had no children.
Personal Life
Beyond acting, Loretta was known for her compassion. She was a dedicated animal rights activist, adopting a vegan lifestyle and working with numerous animal welfare organizations.
She also supported veterans’ causes, often attending charity events related to military healthcare, aligning with the medical themes of MASH.
Her personal life was largely private. She never sought publicity beyond her professional work, which added to her reputation for humility and grace.
Lifestyle
Loretta Swit’s lifestyle reflected simplicity and purpose. She lived comfortably but modestly, prioritizing art, animal welfare, and health over luxury.
Her daily routine included painting, yoga, and reading. Even in her later years, she remained energetic and deeply engaged in creative pursuits. The balance she maintained between fame and simplicity played a major role in sustaining her long and fulfilling life — and her ability to manage and preserve her wealth contributed greatly to the stability of Loretta Swit net worth.
Loretta Swit Height and Weight
Loretta Swit’s height was 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters), according to IMDb and other entertainment databases. Her exact weight was not widely documented, though she maintained a slim and healthy physique throughout her life.
Her graceful appearance was a part of her professional identity. She carried herself with elegance both on and off-screen, which helped her transition easily between acting, public speaking, and charity events.
Loretta Swit Media Presence
Loretta Swit maintained a presence in the public eye long after her peak television years.
- Television Legacy: MASH reruns kept her visible to new generations of viewers.
- Public Appearances: She attended interviews, talk shows, and award ceremonies, where she was always celebrated for her wit and class.
- Authorship and Art: Swit published books on needlepoint and exhibited her watercolor paintings.
- Social Media: Though not an active user herself, her fans created pages dedicated to her memory and activism.
- Documentaries: She was featured in documentaries about MASH and 1970s television history, reinforcing her iconic status.
Loretta Swit’s impact remains alive in the media and in the hearts of her admirers.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram: @lorettaswit
- Facebook: Loretta Swit
- Twitter: Loretta Swit – X
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Loretta Swit net worth at the time of her death?
Loretta Swit net worth was approximately $4 million, with some estimates reaching $5 million.
How did Loretta Swit earn her money?
Most of her income came from her long tenure on MASH*, stage performances, book sales, and royalties.
Did Loretta Swit have children?
No, Loretta Swit did not have any children.
What was Loretta Swit’s height?
Loretta Swit was 5 feet 6 inches tall.
Was Loretta Swit active on social media?
No, but numerous fan pages and organizations still share her work and legacy online.
Conclusion
Loretta Swit remains a timeless symbol of grace, intelligence, and compassion. Her contribution to television history through MASH* cannot be overstated, and her off-screen advocacy further cemented her legacy as a humanitarian.
With a career spanning over five decades, the story of Loretta Swit net worth mirrors her resilience and dedication. Estimated at $4 million, her wealth represents years of disciplined work rather than fleeting fame.
Even after her passing in 2025, Loretta Swit’s spirit lives on through the enduring popularity of her shows, the lives she touched, and the causes she supported. She will forever be remembered not only for her talent but also for her heart — a true Hollywood icon whose worth went far beyond money.
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