Introduction
Loretta Swit net worth was estimated at $4 million at the time of her death in 2025, leaving a lasting financial and cultural footprint as an iconic actress. Best known for her Emmy-winning role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan in MAS*H, Loretta Swit passed away on May 30, 2025, at age 87 from natural causes. Born November 4, 1937, in Passaic, New Jersey, her career spanned television, film, and theater. This biography honors her life, addressing Loretta Swit cause of death, family, and contributions.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Loretta Jane Szwed (known as Loretta Swit) |
| Born (Date & Place) | November 4, 1937, Passaic, New Jersey, USA |
| Age (as of 2026) | Deceased at 87 (died May 30, 2025) |
| Profession/Occupation | Actress, Singer, Author, Animal Rights Activist |
| Famous For | Role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan in MAS*H |
| Parents | Father: Paul Szwed (tailor); Mother: Agnes Szwed (homemaker) |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Katharine Gibbs School; American Academy of Dramatic Arts |
| Siblings | Brother: Robert Szwed |
| Key Achievements | Two Emmy Awards for MAS*H (1974, 1975); Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame (1989); Numerous theater credits; Animal rights advocacy |
| Net Worth (if verified) | $4 million (at time of death in 2025, Celebrity Net Worth) |
| Height (if verified) | 5′ 6″ (168 cm) |
| Spouse/Status | Divorced from Dennis Holahan (m. 1983–div. 1995); No children |
Early Life
Loretta Swit was born on November 4, 1937, in Passaic, New Jersey, into a Polish-American family that instilled strong work ethics and creativity. As a child, she showed interest in performing arts, participating in school plays and singing. Passaic’s industrial setting contrasted with her artistic dreams. Her early years were marked by World War II influences, shaping her resilience.
Growing up in a modest home, Loretta Swit helped with household chores while nurturing her talents. She attended local schools, excelling in drama classes. New Jersey’s proximity to New York City sparked her Broadway aspirations. This period built her determination for entertainment.
Loretta Swit‘s childhood involved music lessons and community theater. She often recalled singing in church choirs. The 1940s and 1950s cultural scene inspired her. Her early life laid the foundation for a versatile career.
Family Background
Loretta Swit family background was rooted in Polish immigrant heritage, emphasizing family bonds and hard work. Her father, Paul Szwed, worked as a tailor, providing for the family. Her mother, Agnes Szwed, was a homemaker who supported her children’s ambitions. The Szwed family lived in Passaic, fostering a close-knit environment.
Loretta Swit had one sibling, brother Robert Szwed, who maintained a private life. No sisters are mentioned. The family’s Catholic faith played a significant role. Loretta Swit often credited her parents for her strong values.
| Family Member | Role | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Paul Szwed | Father | Tailor; Polish immigrant descendant |
| Agnes Szwed | Mother | Homemaker; Supported artistic pursuits |
| Robert Szwed | Brother | Kept private life; Close family ties |
| Sister | None mentioned | No public information on sisters |
| Ex Lover/Boyfriend | Various | Early relationships not detailed; Focused on career |
| Husband | Dennis Holahan | Married 1983, divorced 1995; No children |
Loretta Swit‘s family encouraged her talents. Her parents’ immigrant background instilled perseverance. The absence of fame in family made her success self-made. This background influenced her grounded personality.
Education
Loretta Swit attended high school Loretta Swit at Pope Pius XII High School in Passaic, where she excelled in drama and music. She participated in school productions, honing her acting skills. The school environment nurtured her talents. After graduation, she pursued further training.
She studied at Katharine Gibbs School for secretarial skills, but her passion was acting. Loretta Swit trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York. The academy’s rigorous program developed her craft. Influences from teachers shaped her technique.
Loretta Swit‘s education emphasized performance arts. She took voice lessons for singing. New York’s cultural scene provided practical learning. This period prepared her for professional roles.
Her education blended practical skills with artistic training. Loretta Swit credits the academy for her success. It built confidence for auditions. Her learning continued through early career experiences.
Career Journey
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1937 | Born in Passaic | Polish-American family |
| 1950s | High School and Training | Pope Pius XII High School; American Academy of Dramatic Arts |
| 1969 | Broadway Debut | Same Time, Next Year |
| 1972 | MAS*H Premiere | Role as Major Houlihan |
| 1974 | First Emmy Award | Outstanding Supporting Actress |
| 1975 | Second Emmy Award | For MAS*H |
| 1981 | Film S.O.B. | Role in Blake Edwards comedy |
| 1983 | MAS*H Finale | End of 11-season run |
| 1986 | Book A Needlepoint Scrapbook | On her passion for needlepoint |
| 1989 | Hollywood Walk of Fame | Star for television contributions |
| 1992 | TV Movie A Killer Among Friends | Lead role |
| 2000s | Animal Rights Advocacy | Work with PETA and other organizations |
| 2025 | Passed Away | May 30, natural causes |
Loretta Swit‘s career began in theater, performing in off-Broadway productions in the 1960s. She debuted on Broadway in Same Time, Next Year (1969). Her stage work honed her skills. Television roles followed in the 1970s.
In 1972, Loretta Swit landed the role of Major Margaret Houlihan in MAS*H. The series ran until 1983, making her famous. She portrayed the character’s evolution masterfully. This role defined her career.
Post-MAS*H, Loretta Swit appeared in films like S.O.B. (1981) and Whoops Apocalypse (1986). Television movies like A Killer Among Friends (1992) showcased her range. She continued stage work, including Love Letters.
In the 2000s, Loretta Swit focused on animal rights and authoring books. She narrated documentaries and appeared in guest roles. Her career spanned over 50 years.
Loretta Swit‘s journey reflects versatility. From theater to television icon, she adapted to roles. Her commitment to craft endured.
Major Achievements
| Category | Statistic | Details |
|---|---|---|
| MAS*H Episodes | 251 | Across 11 seasons |
| Emmy Nominations | 10 | For Houlihan role |
| Height | 5′ 6″ | Graceful presence |
| Age at Death | 87 | Long, impactful life |
| Marriages | 1 | To Dennis Holahan |
| Children | 0 | No children |
| Net Worth | $4 million | At death in 2025 |
Loretta Swit‘s major achievement is two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in MAS*H (1974, 1975). The role earned her critical acclaim. She received 10 Emmy nominations total. This success solidified her television legacy.
Her Broadway work in The Mystery of Edwin Drood (1985) earned a Tony nomination. Loretta Swit‘s theater achievements include regional productions. She won the Sarah Siddons Award for Chicago theater work.
Loretta Swit received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1989. Animal rights advocacy earned her Genesis Award. Her achievements extend to authorship with A Needlepoint Scrapbook (1986).
No Grammy or Oscar, but her influence in television is profound. Loretta Swit‘s achievements highlight versatility and dedication.
Personal Life
Loretta Swit‘s personal life was private, focusing on career and advocacy. She married actor Dennis Holahan in 1983, divorcing in 1995. No children from the marriage. Loretta Swit remained single afterward, dedicating time to animals.
No known boyfriend or ex-lover post-divorce. Loretta Swit‘s lifestyle involved New York living and travel. Height of 5’ 6″ and elegant style reflected her grace. She enjoyed painting and needlepoint.
Loretta Swit‘s relationships were professional, with lifelong friends from MAS*H. She valued independence. Her life exemplified balance between work and passions.
Net Worth
Loretta Swit net worth was estimated at $4 million at her death in 2025, per Celebrity Net Worth. This figure came from MAS*H royalties and film earnings. Television residuals provided steady income. Endorsements and books added to her wealth.
Income sources included acting fees from guest roles. Her net worth reflected a long career. No business ventures reported. Verified data from 2025 shows modest but comfortable finances.
Assets included her New York apartment. No luxury items detailed. Loretta Swit‘s net worth underscores her successful entertainment tenure.
Influence
Loretta Swit‘s influence lies in her portrayal of strong women, inspiring actresses. Her MAS*H role challenged stereotypes. Public perception viewed her as talented and kind, enduring after death.
Cultural context in television highlights her contribution to sitcoms. Legacy includes animal rights advocacy. In 2026, she is remembered as a pioneer.
Loretta Swit‘s influence extends to fans through reruns. Her story motivates persistence. She remains an icon.
Recent Updates
In 2025, Loretta Swit passed away on May 30 from natural causes. Tributes poured in from co-stars. Memorial services honored her legacy.
In 2026, recent updates include retrospectives on MAS*H. Fans celebrate her birthday. No new projects, but her work endures.
Future plans not applicable, but her influence continues. Documentaries may explore her life. Loretta Swit‘s memory lives on.
Conclusion
Loretta Swit‘s biography is one of talent and grace. Her $4 million net worth reflects a legendary career. Deceased at 87, her legacy inspires. Loretta Swit proves dedication leads to timeless impact.
FAQ Section
What is Loretta Swit net worth?
Loretta Swit net worth was $4 million at her death in 2025.
What is Loretta Swit age?
Loretta Swit age was 87 at her death on May 30, 2025.
What is Loretta Swit cause of death?
Loretta Swit cause of death was natural causes.
Did Loretta Swit pass away?
Yes, Loretta Swit died on May 30, 2025.
What are Loretta Swit movies and TV shows?
Loretta Swit movies and TV shows include MAS*H, S.O.B., Whoops Apocalypse.
Does Loretta Swit have children?
Loretta Swit had no children.
Disclaimer
This biography is based solely on publicly available information from reliable sources as of January 2026. Estimates such as net worth are approximate and subject to change. No private or unverified information has been included.
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