Though she was personally unable to sit through the 1970 feature version of “M*A*S*H” due to an aversion to blood, Emmy-winning actress Loretta Swit campaigned hard to land the role of Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan in the television version (CBS, 1972-83). The role – brittle, unwaveringly loyal to country and rules, but with a secret reserve of passion – became the most enduring role in her long career, which also encompassed numerous guest appearances on television series and game shows, as well as stage appearances across the country. In later years, Swit made a name for herself as a
