Catherine O’Hara, the celebrated actress whose career spanned decades and captivated audiences with her comedic brilliance and dramatic depth, died on , at the age of 71. While initially reported as following a brief illness, the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office has now confirmed the cause of death: a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer listed as the underlying cause.
The news, initially shared by O’Hara’s representatives, sent ripples of grief through the entertainment industry. The death certificate, released on , provides a more detailed understanding of the circumstances surrounding her passing. According to reports, an oncologist had been treating O’Hara for rectal cancer since , with a final consultation taking place just days before her death, on . She passed away at a hospital in Santa Monica, California and was subsequently cremated.
O’Hara’s career was remarkably versatile, encompassing television, film, and stage. She rose to prominence as a member of the iconic Canadian sketch comedy troupe SCTV, showcasing her improvisational skills and character work. This foundation led to a prolific career featuring memorable roles in films like “Home Alone” and “Beetlejuice,” where she demonstrated a unique ability to blend comedic timing with a touch of the macabre. Her portrayal of Kate McCallister in the “Home Alone” films remains a beloved holiday staple for generations.
However, it was her recent work as Moira Rose in the critically acclaimed series “Schitt’s Creek” that cemented her status as a modern comedy icon. The role, for which she won a Primetime Emmy Award in 2020 and a Golden Globe in 2021, allowed her to fully explore her range as an actress. Moira Rose, a former soap opera star navigating a drastically altered reality, became a cultural touchstone, celebrated for her eccentric wardrobe, distinctive vocal delivery, and unwavering self-importance. The series, co-created by and starring Eugene Levy and his son Dan Levy, provided a late-career renaissance for O’Hara, introducing her to a new generation of fans.
Beyond “Schitt’s Creek,” O’Hara continued to work steadily in television, appearing in series such as “Six Feet Under,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” and, most recently, the Apple TV+ series “The Studio.” Her dedication to her craft was evident in the breadth of her roles and her willingness to embrace challenging material.
The outpouring of tributes following her death underscored the profound impact she had on her colleagues and fans. Macaulay Culkin, her on-screen son in “Home Alone,” shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, expressing his grief and longing for more time with the actress. Michael Keaton, her co-star in “Beetlejuice,” described her as a “pretend wife, my pretend nemesis and my real life, true friend,” lamenting the loss of a cherished companion. Seth Rogen, who worked with O’Hara on “The Studio,” praised her as “hysterical, kind, intuitive, generous,” emphasizing the positive influence she had on those around her.
O’Hara’s passing is particularly poignant given that she had not publicly disclosed her battle with rectal cancer. The diagnosis, revealed through the death certificate, highlights the often-private struggles faced by individuals even in the public eye. Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States, according to the National Cancer Institute, underscoring the importance of early detection and preventative measures.
The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a medical aid call at an address connected to O’Hara on at 4:48 a.m., transporting her to a hospital in serious condition. While the initial statement from her representatives offered few details, the release of the death certificate now provides a clearer picture of the events leading up to her death.
Catherine O’Hara’s legacy extends far beyond her numerous accolades and iconic roles. She was a gifted performer, a dedicated artist, and a beloved colleague. Her ability to find humor in the absurd, to portray vulnerability with grace, and to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level will be sorely missed. Her work will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come, ensuring that her memory lives on in the hearts of those who admired her talent and cherished her spirit.
