A tribute to Catherine O'Hara (1954–2026)
Catherine O'Hara's gift was her versatility: she could be hilariously exaggerated yet deeply relatable, silly yet soulful. Whether voicing characters in animated films, appearing in guest spots on shows like Curb Your Enthusiasm or 30 Rock, or bringing quiet depth to dramatic turns, she always infused her work with warmth, intelligence, and fearless originality.
Born in Toronto on March 4, 1954, O'Hara passed away on January 30, 2026, at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, at the age of 71. The news, confirmed by her agency CAA and reported widely across outlets like People, Variety, and The New York Times, has left fans and the comedy world in mourning for one of the most beloved and influential performers of her generation.
She began her career without formal training, starting as a waitress at The Second City Toronto before stepping into the spotlight to replace Gilda Radner. Her breakout came on the legendary sketch series SCTV, where she collaborated with Eugene Levy, John Candy, Martin Short, and Andrea Martin to create iconic characters like the melodramatic Lola Heatherton and the eccentric Dusty Towne, alongside brilliant celebrity impressions. Her writing and performing earned her an Emmy in 1982 and established her as a master of improvisation and character comedy.
O'Hara transitioned effortlessly to film and television, bringing her quirky, offbeat energy to Tim Burton's Beetlejuice (1988) as the avant-garde Delia Deetz (a role she reprised in the 2024 sequel), and to millions as the warm yet exasperated mom Kate McCallister in Home Alone (1990) and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)—performances that remain holiday staples. Her long collaboration with Christopher Guest produced comedy gold in mockumentaries like Waiting for Guffman (1996), Best in Show (2000), and A Mighty Wind (2003), where her impeccable timing turned absurdity into something profoundly human.
In her later years, she delivered what many consider her crowning achievement as Moira Rose on Schitt's Creek (2015–2020), the series co-created by Eugene Levy and Dan Levy. With her theatrical wardrobe, mangled pronunciations, and unshakeable self-regard, Moira became a cultural icon—earning O'Hara an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2020 and helping the show sweep awards while blending over-the-top flair with genuine heart and vulnerability.
From SCTV's late-night absurdity to Schitt's Creek's tender triumphs, O'Hara's career spanned more than five decades, leaving an indelible mark through every rewatch of her classics, every quotable Moira line ("What is the thing with the things?"), and every reminder that the best comedy springs from truth, timing, and a touch of glorious weirdness.
Her passing is a profound loss, but her legacy endures in the joy she brought to so many. Rest in peace, Catherine O'Hara—thank you for your singular, fabulous light. You've been a favorite for good reason, and the laughter you gave us will live on forever.
