Mike Farrell Remembers 'Dynamo' Co-Star Loretta Swit: A Bond Forged on M*A*S*H
LOSING A LEGEND: MAS*H Vet Mike Farrell Opens Up About Late Co-Star Loretta Swit's Fiery Personality and Unwavering Talent
It's been just over a week since the entertainment world lost a true icon, and one of her closest friends is still reeling from the shock. Mike Farrell, the 86-year-old actor who played Captain B.J. Hunnicutt on the classic medical drama series MAS*H, spoke candidly with TheScholarlyNote.com about his dear friend Loretta Swit, who passed away at the age of 87 on May 30.
The two actors spent over a decade working together on the hit show, which aired from 1975 to 1983. While Farrell portrayed the lovable and laid-back Captain Hunnicutt, Swit brought her signature sass and sparkle as the iconic Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan. And let's just say, she left an indelible mark on both the set and the hearts of those around her.
"Loretta was a force to be reckoned with," Farrell told TheScholarlyNote.com in a heartfelt conversation. "She had this incredible energy that would electrify the entire set. I'd often find myself wondering how one person could contain so much talent, wit, and passion."
Farrell recalled how Swit's persona underwent a remarkable transformation as soon as she stepped onto the set. Gone was the demure and sweet off-camera Loretta; in her place stood the fiery, sharp-tongued Hot Lips, ready to command attention and spark controversy.
"She'd be sitting quietly, crocheting or reading a book, and then suddenly, 'Hot Lips' would take over," Farrell laughed, remembering how Swit's character would hijack scenes with her quick wit and biting sarcasm. "She'd holler at someone for making a mistake, and I'm talking full-on 'How dare you!' moments. It was both exhilarating and intimidating to watch."
But what made Swit truly special was her ability to compartmentalize her on-screen persona from her off-camera life. As Farrell noted, she'd switch seamlessly between being the tough-as-nails Hot Lips on set and a gentle soul engaged in her beloved needlepoint embroidery.
"She'd be stitching away, creating these beautiful pieces of art for each of us as gifts," he said with admiration. "It was an extraordinary demonstration of her talent – not just acting, but her ability to multitask and focus. I've never seen anyone like her."
Farrell's recollections of Swit also highlighted the close bond that developed among the cast members over their years working together on MAS*H. As he so aptly put it, "We really became deeply associated with each other's lives." This tight-knit camaraderie would become a hallmark of the show, which tackled some of the toughest issues of its time while maintaining an unbreakable sense of humor and humanity.
However, as Farrell acknowledged, this bond has also been tested by time. Many of their co-stars have passed on, leaving behind a legacy that the remaining crew members – including himself, Alan Alda, Jamie Farr, and Gary Burghoff – continue to honor.
"It's been very difficult," he said somberly, reflecting on the losses they've suffered over the years. "But we take comfort in knowing that our friends are still with us, even if it's just in spirit."
In his heartfelt tribute to Swit, Farrell expressed gratitude for their long-standing friendship and shared experiences on MAS*H. He reminded TheScholarlyNote.com readers that Loretta is now at peace, likely reunited with beloved castmates Harry Morgan (whom she "was very fond of") and others who have left this world behind.
"To our loyal fans," he said gently, "please don't feel sad. I'm sure she's thrilled to be where she is, surrounded by the people she loved and cherished."
