Acclaimed actress Catherine O’Hara passed away at the age of 71, after being transported from her Brentwood residence to a hospital. O’Hara is known for her memorable roles in popular films and series such as “Schitt’s Creek,” “Home Alone,” and “Beetlejuice.”
O’Hara’s career in entertainment spanned over six decades, starting with her participation in “SCTV Network 90” and culminating in her Emmy-winning performance as Moira Rose in “Schitt’s Creek.” She was awarded her first Emmy in 1982 for her writing contributions to “SCTV Network 90,” and earned her second Emmy in 2020 for her lead role in “Schitt’s Creek.” In 2021, she received a Golden Globe for the same role.
Originally from Toronto, Canada, O’Hara was the sixth of seven children. Her career began at Second City, eventually leading to her becoming one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. O’Hara initially served as an understudy for Gilda Radner before gaining recognition on “SCTV.” Her impersonations of famous personalities such as Lucille Ball, Meryl Streep, and Katharine Hepburn, along with her unique comedic timing, made her a standout performer.
One of O’Hara’s most iconic roles was as Kevin McCallister’s mother in the 1990’s film “Home Alone.” Her line “KEVIN!” became one of the most memorable in cinema. O’Hara played Macaulay Culkin’s mother in the first two “Home Alone” films and her performance added both humor and heart to the much-loved Christmas classics.
In December 2023, O’Hara attended Culkin’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony, where she shared heartfelt remarks reflecting their on-screen relationship. Following O’Hara’s death, Culkin posted a poignant tribute to her on social media.
Chris Columbus, the director of “Home Alone,” expressed his sorrow over O’Hara’s death in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter, highlighting the significant contribution she made to the film.
Throughout her career, O’Hara showcased her impressive range as an actress. She met her husband, production designer Bo Welch, while filming Tim Burton’s 1988 film “Beetlejuice.” The couple married in 1992 and had two sons, Matthew and Luke. O’Hara reprised her role in the 2024 sequel of “Beetlejuice.”
O’Hara also worked with director Christopher Guest on several well-received mockumentaries. Following her death, Guest expressed his devastation, describing her as “one of the comic giants of our age.”
O’Hara’s role as Moira Rose in “Schitt’s Creek,” which started in 2015, brought her widespread acclaim and introduced her to a new generation of fans. Her portrayal earned her two SAG Awards, in addition to her Emmy and Golden Globe wins.
In her most recent roles, O’Hara appeared opposite Seth Rogen in the Apple TV+ series “The Studio” and alongside Pedro Pascal in HBO’s “The Last of Us.” Both roles earned her Emmy nominations at the 2025 ceremony. She was also nominated for a Golden Globe for “The Studio” in January 2026.
O’Hara was last photographed at LAX in February 2024. When asked about her most memorable role, she referred to her extensive body of work. Over the course of her career, O’Hara earned two Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and two SAG Awards. She was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2017 and named honorary mayor of Brentwood in 2021.
O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke. A private celebration of life will be held by the family, according to her agency.