Catherine O’Hara, the Emmy-winning actress whose career spanned decades and encompassed iconic roles in films like Home Alone and the critically acclaimed series Schitt’s Creek, died on , at her home in Los Angeles. She was 71. The cause of death was a blood clot in her lungs, according to her death certificate, with rectal cancer listed as an underlying condition.
Born in Toronto in 1954, O’Hara began her comedic journey at The Second City, where she honed her improvisational skills alongside future collaborator Eugene Levy. Their partnership would prove pivotal, culminating in their celebrated work on Schitt’s Creek, but their creative relationship began much earlier, with their first on-screen appearance together in Double Negative (1980).
O’Hara’s breakthrough into mainstream film came with Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice (1988), where she portrayed Delia Deetz, the delightfully oblivious and self-absorbed mother. The role showcased her talent for comedic timing and eccentric character work, establishing her as a distinctive presence in Hollywood. She later married Bo Welch, the production designer on Beetlejuice, and together they had two sons, Matthew and Luke.
Just two years later, she cemented her place in pop culture history as Kate McCallister, the frazzled yet loving mother in Home Alone (1990). The film became a massive box office success, launching Macaulay Culkin to stardom and solidifying O’Hara’s reputation as a comedic force. She reprised the role in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), further endearing her to audiences worldwide. Her voice work also extended to animated classics, notably as Sally in Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Throughout the following decades, O’Hara continued to deliver memorable performances in both film and television. She appeared in projects like The Larry David Show, Modern Family, and, more recently, the HBO Max series The Last of Us. However, it was her portrayal of Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek (2015-2020) that arguably defined a new chapter in her career.
Moira Rose, the former soap opera star and matriarch of the Rose family, became an instant fan favorite. O’Hara’s performance, characterized by her unique vocal delivery, outlandish fashion sense, and dramatic flair, earned her widespread critical acclaim. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2020 for the role, along with a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild Award.
Schitt’s Creek’s success wasn’t just a personal triumph for O’Hara; it represented a broader shift in television, with its heartwarming portrayal of a family finding connection and purpose in unexpected circumstances. The show’s popularity extended beyond traditional viewership, becoming a cultural phenomenon embraced by a diverse audience.
Prior to her death, O’Hara had continued to work steadily, reprising her role as Delia Deetz in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice and appearing in the Apple TV+ comedy The Studio. Her commitment to her craft remained unwavering, even as she navigated a career that spanned multiple generations of entertainment.
News of O’Hara’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike. Macaulay Culkin, who played her son in Home Alone, shared a heartfelt message, expressing his grief and admiration for the actress. “Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much more to say. I love you. I’ll see you later,” he wrote.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and his predecessor, Justin Trudeau, also mourned her loss, recognizing her as a national icon. Trudeau described her as “a beloved Canadian icon with a rare gift for comedy and heart,” adding, “She made people laugh across generations.”
Catherine O’Hara’s legacy extends far beyond her numerous awards and accolades. She was a versatile performer who brought joy and laughter to audiences around the world. Her ability to embody eccentric characters with both vulnerability and wit made her a truly unforgettable presence in the world of entertainment. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her work will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.
