Catherine O’Hara is dead: 15 things to know about “Schitt’s Creek” and “Home Alone” star
Catherine O’Hara is dead: 15 things to know about “Schitt’s Creek” and “Home Alone” star. Photo credit: Getty Images
Catherine O’Hara, the Emmy-winning Canadian actress known for her iconic roles in Schitt’s Creek, Home Alone and a long list of beloved films and television series, has died at the age of 71, her representatives have confirmed.
O’Hara died Friday at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, according to a statement from her agency. No further details about the cause of death have been released.
She rose to fame in the 1970s as a member of Toronto’s Second City comedy troupe and the sketch show SCTV, where she worked alongside fellow comedians including Eugene Levy and Martin Short.
O’Hara became a household name with roles in classic films such as Beetlejuice, Best in Show and A Mighty Wind, and she captured the hearts of audiences worldwide as Kevin’s determined mother in the first two Home Alone movies.
Her portrayal of Moira Rose, the eccentric former soap star in the hit comedy Schitt’s Creek, earned her widespread acclaim, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2020.
In recent years, O’Hara continued to work prolifically, earning Emmy nominations for her performances in the Apple TV+ series The Studio and HBO’s The Last of Us.
Born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto, she maintained a career that spanned more than five decades and influenced generations of performers. She is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons.
Her passing marks the loss of one of the most versatile and admired figures in comedy and film.
15 Things to Know About Catherine O’Hara
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She Was a Comedy Pioneer
Catherine O’Hara was a trailblazer in modern sketch and character comedy. She rose to prominence in the late 1970s as a key member of SCTV, a show that shaped North American comedy and influenced generations of performers. -
A Founding Star of SCTV
O’Hara was one of the standout performers on SCTV Network 90, where she showcased her gift for character work, accents, and satire. Her contributions earned her an early Emmy Award for writing in 1982. -
Global Fame Came With “Home Alone”
She became a household name playing Kate McCallister, the frantic but loving mother of Kevin McCallister, in Home Alone (1990) and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992). -
Moira Rose Became a Cultural Icon
Her portrayal of Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek is considered one of the most iconic television performances of the 21st century, celebrated for its exaggerated diction, fashion, and emotional depth.
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Emmy-Winning Performance
O’Hara won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2020 for Schitt’s Creek, a historic night when the show swept all major comedy categories. -
Frequent Collaborator With Eugene Levy
She enjoyed a long creative partnership with Eugene Levy, collaborating on SCTV, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, For Your Consideration, and Schitt’s Creek. -
Master of Mockumentary Comedy
O’Hara excelled in mockumentary films directed by Christopher Guest, particularly Best in Show (2000) and A Mighty Wind (2003), where her improvised performances were widely praised. -
A “Beetlejuice” Classic
She appeared in Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice (1988) and its sequel Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, further cementing her legacy in cult cinema.
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Canadian Roots
Born and raised in Toronto, Canada, O’Hara proudly embraced her Canadian identity and remained closely tied to the country’s creative community throughout her life. -
A Career Spanning Five Decades
From sketch comedy and film to prestige television and streaming platforms, Catherine O’Hara maintained relevance across more than 50 years in the entertainment industry. -
Late-Career Renaissance
Schitt’s Creek introduced her to a new generation of fans and critics, leading to renewed acclaim, awards, and high-profile projects well into her 60s and 70s. -
Continued Working Until Her Final Years
Her most recent work included appearances in the Apple TV+ series The Studio, where she starred opposite Seth Rogen and earned award recognition. -
Married to a Renowned Production Designer
She met her husband, Bo Welch, a respected production designer and director, on the set of Beetlejuice. They married in 1992 and shared a long, private family life. -
A Private but Respected Figure
Despite her fame, O’Hara kept her personal life largely out of the spotlight, earning respect for her professionalism, humility, and dedication to her craft. -
A Lasting Legacy in Comedy and Film
Catherine O’Hara leaves behind a legacy defined by originality, fearless character work, and emotional intelligence. She is remembered as one of the most versatile and beloved performers in comedy history.
SEO FAQ Section
Q: Who was Catherine O’Hara?
A: Catherine O’Hara was a Canadian actress and comedian best known for her roles in Schitt’s Creek, Home Alone, Beetlejuice, and Best in Show.
Q: How did Catherine O’Hara die?
A: Catherine O’Hara died at the age of 71. Details surrounding the cause of death have not been fully disclosed.
Q: What was Catherine O’Hara most famous for?
A: She was most famous for playing Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek and Kate McCallister in the Home Alone films.
Q: Did Catherine O’Hara win an Emmy Award?
A: Yes. She won a Primetime Emmy Award in 2020 for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series for Schitt’s Creek.
Q: Was Catherine O’Hara Canadian?
A: Yes. She was born and raised in Toronto, Canada.
Q: Who was Catherine O’Hara married to?
A: She was married to production designer Bo Welch, whom she met on the set of Beetlejuice.