Catherine O’Hara, the acclaimed Canadian actress known for her iconic roles in film and television, has passed away at the age of 67. She died on Friday at her home in Los Angeles “following a brief illness,” according to a statement from her agency, Creative Artists Agency. Details surrounding her passing have not been disclosed.
O’Hara gained widespread recognition for her role as the well-meaning yet frazzled mother of Macaulay Culkin’s character in the beloved “Home Alone” films. Her performance in these comedies solidified her status as a household name. Tributes have begun to pour in from fans and fellow actors alike, with Culkin expressing his heartfelt sentiments on social media. He wrote, “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.”
A Legacy of Laughter and Innovation
Another tribute came from actor Pedro Pascal, who shared, “Oh, genius to be near you. Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world; this lucky world that had you will keep you, always.” O’Hara’s career began in the 1970s at the Second City in Toronto, where she first collaborated with Eugene Levy. The two would later star together in the influential sketch show “SCTV,” which became a launching pad for a generation of comedians, including Martin Short, John Candy, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis, and Joe Flaherty.
O’Hara’s role in “Schitt’s Creek,” created by Levy and his son Dan Levy, marked a significant turning point in her career. The show, which tells the story of a wealthy family forced to relocate to a small town, won numerous awards and became a cultural phenomenon. O’Hara’s portrayal of the eccentric and dramatic Moira Rose earned her multiple accolades, including an Emmy Award, and attracted a new generation of fans.
Continued Recognition and Personal Life
Following the success of “Schitt’s Creek,” O’Hara experienced a career renaissance. She took on dramatic roles in projects such as HBO’s “The Last of Us” and played a Hollywood producer in the series “The Studio,” both of which garnered Emmy nominations. Her unique blend of comedy and drama showcased her versatility and continued to endear her to audiences worldwide.
Catherine O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke. As tributes continue to commemorate her extraordinary talent and contribution to the entertainment industry, O’Hara’s legacy as a beloved figure in comedy remains firmly established.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
