Canadian Comedy Legend Catherine O'Hara Leaves Behind Enduring Legacy at 71
Catherine O'Hara, the beloved actress behind the iconic character of Moira Rose in the hit TV series "Schitt's Creek" and a scene-stealing legend in films like "Home Alone," "Best in Show," and "Beetlejuice," has passed away at the age of 71. Her death was confirmed by Creative Artists Agency, who cited a brief illness as the cause.
A Toronto-born veteran of Canada's Second City sketch troupe, O'Hara joined the founding ensemble of "SCTV" in 1976, alongside Eugene Levy and other comedy greats. She earned her first Emmy for writing on the show in 1982, marking the beginning of a long and storied career that spanned decades.
O'Hara's breakout performance as Moira Rose catapulted her to international acclaim, earning her not one but two Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2020. Her portrayal of the eccentric and high-strung soap opera queen cemented her status as a comedy icon, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.
Beyond "Schitt's Creek," O'Hara left an indelible stamp on film with memorable roles like Lydia Deetz's histrionic stepmother Delia in Tim Burton's 1988 classic "Beetlejuice" and its 2024 sequel. She also appeared as Kate McCallister, the mother of Macaulay Culkin's character Kevin, in the beloved holiday films "Home Alone" (1990) and "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" (1992).
O'Hara's versatility extended to Christopher Guest's mockumentaries, including "Waiting for Guffman," "A Mighty Wind," and "For Your Consideration." She also lent her voice to iconic characters like Sally in Tim Burton's 1993 classic "The Nightmare Before Christmas" and Brook Ripple in the Pixar film "Elemental."
Throughout her career, O'Hara has demonstrated an impressive range, effortlessly navigating dramatic and comedic roles. Her ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters has earned her a reputation as one of the greatest comedic actresses of our time.
As news of her passing spread, O'Hara's co-stars took to social media to share heartfelt tributes. "Last of Us" star Pedro Pascal called her "the one and ONLY Catherine O'Hara," while Macaulay Culkin wrote a poignant remembrance on Instagram, expressing his gratitude for their time together.
For O'Hara, family was always the greatest legacy she wanted to leave behind. In 2024, when asked which role she'd like to be remembered for, she replied, "mother to my children." Her sons Luke and Matthew will undoubtedly carry on her comedic legacy, ensuring that her memory lives on in the hearts of audiences around the world.
Catherine O'Hara, the beloved actress behind the iconic character of Moira Rose in the hit TV series "Schitt's Creek" and a scene-stealing legend in films like "Home Alone," "Best in Show," and "Beetlejuice," has passed away at the age of 71. Her death was confirmed by Creative Artists Agency, who cited a brief illness as the cause.
A Toronto-born veteran of Canada's Second City sketch troupe, O'Hara joined the founding ensemble of "SCTV" in 1976, alongside Eugene Levy and other comedy greats. She earned her first Emmy for writing on the show in 1982, marking the beginning of a long and storied career that spanned decades.
O'Hara's breakout performance as Moira Rose catapulted her to international acclaim, earning her not one but two Emmys for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2020. Her portrayal of the eccentric and high-strung soap opera queen cemented her status as a comedy icon, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture.
Beyond "Schitt's Creek," O'Hara left an indelible stamp on film with memorable roles like Lydia Deetz's histrionic stepmother Delia in Tim Burton's 1988 classic "Beetlejuice" and its 2024 sequel. She also appeared as Kate McCallister, the mother of Macaulay Culkin's character Kevin, in the beloved holiday films "Home Alone" (1990) and "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York" (1992).
O'Hara's versatility extended to Christopher Guest's mockumentaries, including "Waiting for Guffman," "A Mighty Wind," and "For Your Consideration." She also lent her voice to iconic characters like Sally in Tim Burton's 1993 classic "The Nightmare Before Christmas" and Brook Ripple in the Pixar film "Elemental."
Throughout her career, O'Hara has demonstrated an impressive range, effortlessly navigating dramatic and comedic roles. Her ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters has earned her a reputation as one of the greatest comedic actresses of our time.
As news of her passing spread, O'Hara's co-stars took to social media to share heartfelt tributes. "Last of Us" star Pedro Pascal called her "the one and ONLY Catherine O'Hara," while Macaulay Culkin wrote a poignant remembrance on Instagram, expressing his gratitude for their time together.
For O'Hara, family was always the greatest legacy she wanted to leave behind. In 2024, when asked which role she'd like to be remembered for, she replied, "mother to my children." Her sons Luke and Matthew will undoubtedly carry on her comedic legacy, ensuring that her memory lives on in the hearts of audiences around the world.
Catherine O'Hara was literally the QUEEN of comedy & she left us way too soon @ 71!!! I remember watching Schitt's Creek for the first time & being HOOKED on Moira Rose's sassiness & wit 
her iconic roles in Beetlejuice, Home Alone, & The Nightmare Before Christmas are still giving me life even tho it's been ages 
it's so sad that we won't get to see more of her masterful performances but I'm so grateful for the time we had with her 
rest in peace, Queen Catherine 
She was literally a comedy godess! I mean, who else could make Moira Rose so iconic? Her range was insane, from dramatic to super goofy - she was like the ultimate chameleon on screen 
. And can we talk about her filmography? Beetlejuice is still one of my fave movies ever 
. I'm gonna miss seeing her face and hearing that voice in all these classic films 
. What's your favorite Catherine O'Hara role?
- 71 isn't old at all considering what an incredible career she had. She was literally everywhere! From "Home Alone" to "Schitt's Creek", she brought so much life and energy to her characters it's crazy she's already leaving us. The fact that she wanted to be remembered as a mom to her own kids is the most beautiful thing - family forever 
Anyways, while her passing leaves a void in our entertainment landscape, it's comforting to know she left behind a legacy through her work and family - her sons are totally next up to carry the torch. 
. She was more than just a comedy legend - she had this incredible ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters, making them feel so relatable & real 
. I loved how she effortlessly went from dramatic roles in films like "Beetlejuice" to comedic masterpieces like "Schitt's Creek". Her legacy will live on through her sons Luke & Matthew, who'll undoubtedly carry on her comedic torch 
. From Moira Rose to Lydia Deetz, she brought such depth and eccentricity to every character she played 
. Her legacy will live on through her amazing work and her beautiful family 
what's happening ?? catherine o'hara was more than just a comedian to me she was like a superhero who brought laughter & joy 2 our lives n i'm not gonna lie i'm still trying 2 process this news 
catherine u may be gone but ur comedy will live on thru ur amazing sons luke n matthew 
she was an icon in comedy, always bringing so much energy & life to every role 
it's crazy to think we won't get to see more of her genius on screen 
my heart goes out to her family, especially her sons Luke and Matthew 
this is so sad 
she had an incredible range and brought so much depth to her roles 
i mean, who else could make a character like Moira Rose both hilarious and heartbreaking at the same time 
and i'm so glad her sons will keep her legacy alive 
. I loved watching her bring those eccentric characters to life, from Moira Rose to Lydia Deetz 
. Her talent and versatility were truly inspiring 
. Can't believe we'll miss seeing her face (and that signature laugh) in our favorite movies and TV shows again 
I'm going to go watch all her movies now, can never get enough of her talent 
she will be deeply missed but her legacy lives on through her sons Luke & Matthew 
i mean what's the rush? lets celebrate her life instead of dwelling on her death, imo
So sad 
through her family, especially her sons Luke and Matthew. It's beautiful that they'll carry on her comedic spirit 
Her work on "Schitt's Creek" will always be remembered, but her contributions to film and other projects are just as impressive. 
Her versatility as an actress is still impressive today, from dramatic roles to her iconic characters in films like Beetlejuice & The Nightmare Before Christmas 
. Can't help but feel a little sad 
- her talent and versatility are still giving me chills till this day 
just heard about Catherine O'Hara's passing at 71... can't believe we've lost another comedy legend