Loretta Swit, famous for her role as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan in "MS*H," recently opened up about her feelings towards the nickname that has stuck with her for decades. "I understand nicknames come with great love and admiration for a character," Swit explained. "But it was an insult as far as I was concerned. She wasn’t just a piece of anatomy. She was a major in the United States Army, and she should not be disrespected."
Swit was determined to move beyond the nickname and ensure her character was seen for her strength and dedication. "This was a woman who had rank, who worked hard and wanted to be good at her job," she shared. Swit even approached the show's writers to phase out the nickname, persistently reminding them, "She’s so much more than this."
Reflecting on her time with the show, Swit emphasized the importance of respecting real-life servicewomen. "I didn’t want those women to be disrespected," she said.
"Margaret did not see [the nickname] as a compliment. She saw it as disrespect. So, yes, I would say it was never a comfort zone."
Swit's advocacy didn't stop at her character. She has continued to support veterans through her nonprofit, SwitHeart Animal Alliance, which helps reunite military dogs with their handlers or pair them with veterans in need. "Lots of vets always tell me how much of a difference it has made in their lives to be paired with former military dogs," she explained.
Over the years, Swit has formed deep connections with veterans, which she considers a great honor. "It has been a privilege, an honor, to meet so many of these wonderful heroes – they’re still my heroes," she explained. "The very fact that a serviceman or woman puts themselves on the front lines and says, ‘I give you my life’ – that’s the ultimate sacrifice. And we just don’t thank them enough."
Swit's portrayal of Major Houlihan has brought her lifelong friendships and a profound respect for those who serve. "It introduced me to the real experiences of our servicemen and women," she said. "These friendships will last forever. And that has truly been a gift."
