Catherine O'Hara, famed for her unforgettable performances in Schitt's Creek, Home Alone, and Beetlejuice, has passed away at the age of 71. Her death was confirmed by her management, stating that she died at her home in Los Angeles after a brief illness.
Born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto, Ontario, O'Hara rose to prominence through her early work on Canada’s Second City Television (SCTV), where she honed her comedic skills. She gained international fame for her role as the frantic mother, Kate McCallister, in the iconic holiday films Home Alone (1990) and its sequel, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992).
In recent years, her portrayal of Moira Rose on the hit series Schitt's Creek earned her accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award in 2020 and a Golden Globe in 2021. Her character, with her flamboyant fashion sense and unique accent, became a cultural phenomenon, delighting audiences worldwide.
O'Hara's career spanned over six decades, accumulating more than 100 roles in film and television. She also collaborated frequently with fellow Canadian comedian Eugene Levy, with whom she worked on several projects, including Best in Show and A Mighty Wind.
Reports from the Los Angeles Fire Department indicated that emergency services received a call for medical aid at O'Hara's residence early on the day of her passing. She was transported to a local hospital in serious condition, but details surrounding the exact cause of her illness remain unclear.
Celebrities and fans across the globe have begun to pay tribute to O'Hara, celebrating her impact on the entertainment industry and the joy she brought to countless viewers. Macaulay Culkin, her co-star from the Home Alone series, described her with heartfelt sentiments, noting their special bond.
O'Hara is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons, marking the end of an era for a talent who played a vital role in defining comedy for generations. As tributes pour in, her legacy in film and television will undoubtedly endure, reminding fans of the laughter and warmth she brought to her roles.