Catherine O’Hara, the celebrated Canadian actress whose career spanned decades and encompassed iconic roles in comedy and film, died on , at the age of 71. While initially reported as following a “brief illness,” her death certificate has revealed a more complex medical picture: O’Hara succumbed to a pulmonary embolism while also privately battling rectal cancer.
The information, obtained by Rolling Stone from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office, details that the immediate cause of death was a pulmonary embolism – a blockage of an artery in the lung. Rectal cancer is listed as an underlying health condition. The extent of her battle with cancer, and the timeline, remain unclear, as her representatives declined to share specifics following her passing.
O’Hara’s ashes were cremated and returned to her husband, Robert “Bo” Welch, with her final resting place designated as the couple’s cottage in the Muskoka Lakes region of Ontario, Canada. This detail offers a poignant glimpse into the private life of an actress who, despite her public persona, fiercely guarded her personal space.
Born in Windsor, Ontario, O’Hara’s comedic talent first blossomed with the Toronto chapter of the Second City, a renowned improv and sketch troupe. This formative experience laid the groundwork for a career defined by impeccable timing, character work, and a willingness to embrace the absurd. She quickly gained recognition on SCTV, a series that launched the careers of many comedic luminaries and showcased O’Hara’s remarkable range.
From SCTV, O’Hara transitioned seamlessly to film, becoming a familiar face in a string of beloved movies. Her roles in the Home Alone series, though often remembered for their broad appeal, demonstrated her ability to find nuance within comedic archetypes. She also delivered memorable performances in Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice and Martin Scorsese’s After Hours, proving her versatility and willingness to collaborate with some of the industry’s most distinctive voices.
A significant portion of O’Hara’s career was defined by her collaborations with Christopher Guest. Together, they created a unique brand of mockumentary comedy, with O’Hara playing pivotal roles in films like Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, and For Your Consideration. These films, celebrated for their ensemble casts and improvisational spirit, allowed O’Hara to fully showcase her comedic genius, often portraying characters who were both hilariously eccentric and deeply human.
More recently, O’Hara experienced a career resurgence with her portrayal of Moira Rose on the television series Schitt’s Creek. The role, for which she received widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards, allowed her to explore a different facet of her comedic talent – a flamboyant, theatrical, and ultimately vulnerable character who resonated with audiences worldwide. Her performance on Schitt’s Creek earned her Emmy nominations and cemented her status as a comedic icon for a new generation.
Even as Schitt’s Creek concluded, O’Hara remained in demand, receiving Emmy nominations in for her voice work on The Studio and The Last of Us, demonstrating her continued relevance and artistic vitality.
The news of O’Hara’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, peers, and fans. Christopher Guest, Martin Scorsese, Eugene Levy, Dan Levy, Seth Rogen, Martin Short, and Steve Martin were among those who publicly shared their admiration and grief, highlighting the profound impact she had on the entertainment industry and the lives of those who knew her. Eugene Levy described her as a “force of nature,” while Dan Levy spoke of her generosity and mentorship.
Catherine O’Hara’s passing marks the end of an era for comedic acting. Her ability to inhabit a character, to find the humor in the everyday, and to deliver a performance with both precision and heart will be deeply missed. Beyond the accolades and the iconic roles, she leaves behind a legacy of laughter and a reminder of the power of comedic artistry. Her private battle with cancer adds a layer of quiet dignity to a career already marked by grace and talent.
