Sally Kellerman

Biography

Sally Kellerman was an American actress, singer, and voice artist known for her work in film and television. She had a career spanning more than six decades and became particularly famous for playing Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan in MASH* (1970).

Early Life

Sally Clare Kellerman was born on June 2, 1937, in Long Beach, California, USA. She developed an interest in performing while growing up and studied acting before beginning her professional career.

Career

Kellerman began appearing in television programs and films during the late 1950s and early 1960s. Her early screen credits included guest roles in series such as The Twilight Zone, The Outer Limits, and Star Trek.

Her breakthrough came with Robert Altman's MASH* (1970), in which she portrayed Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan. The film became a major critical and commercial success, and Kellerman received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her performance.

She subsequently appeared in films including Brewster McCloud (1970), The Last of Sheila (1973), Back to School (1986), Meatballs III: Summer Job (1986), and The Entity (1982). In Back to School, she played Diane Turner's mother opposite Rodney Dangerfield.

Television Career

Kellerman maintained a substantial television career, appearing in numerous series and television films. Her credits included 90210, The Young and the Restless, Chemistry, and various comedy and drama programs.

She also provided voice work and occasionally performed as a singer, demonstrating her versatility as an entertainer.

Later Years

Kellerman continued acting into the 2000s and 2010s, appearing in independent films and television productions. Her later work included The Remake (2016) and other film projects.

Death and Legacy

Sally Kellerman died on February 24, 2022, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California, at the age of 84.