Catherine O’Hara, the acclaimed comedic actress known for her versatile and heartfelt performances, passed away on Friday morning at the age of 71. Her sudden death has left fans and colleagues mourning the loss of a true original in Hollywood, one whose work brought joy across generations.
O’Hara stood out among entertainers for her genuine kindness and sparkling presence. Unlike many comedians driven by inner turmoil, she embraced her role as a professional eccentric with unbridled enthusiasm. ‘When in doubt,’ she once shared, ‘play insane.’ Yet in her personal life, she exuded warmth and authenticity, qualities that shone through in the outpouring of tributes following her passing.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto, O’Hara grew up as one of seven children in a household that celebrated humor. ‘Being funny was highly encouraged in our family,’ she reflected. ‘I think everyone is born with humor, but your life can beat it out of you, sadly. Or you can be lucky enough to grow up in it.’
Her career took off with the Canadian sketch comedy series Second City Television (SCTV), where she honed her improvisational skills. A major breakthrough came in 1988 with her role opposite Michael Keaton in Tim Burton’s whimsical film Beetlejuice, showcasing her talent for blending humor with eccentricity.
Iconic Roles in Film and Television
O’Hara became a household name in 1990 as Kate McCallister, the forgetful mother in the holiday classic Home Alone, opposite young star Macaulay Culkin. Her portrayal of a harried parent who accidentally leaves her son behind endeared her to audiences worldwide, turning a potentially unlikeable character into a relatable and lovable figure.
She later collaborated with director Christopher Guest and actor Eugene Levy on a series of acclaimed mockumentaries, including Waiting for Guffman, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, and For Your Consideration. These films highlighted her knack for playing delightfully unhinged personalities. ‘I think there’s a bit of the sameness in a lot of the characters I do,’ she noted. ‘I think there’s a lot of insecure delusional. And I love playing people who have no real sense of the impression they’re making on anyone else.’
Schitt’s Creek: A Crowning Achievement
O’Hara’s most celebrated role was as Moira Rose in the hit series Schitt’s Creek, a disgraced former soap star navigating life in a small town. The character, with her elaborate wardrobe, bizarre accent, and collection of outrageous wigs, became an instant icon. O’Hara drew inspiration from fashion icon Daphne Guinness for Moira’s bold style. ‘Her wardrobe, it’s just so great and extreme,’ she explained. ‘It’s strong and it’s armor, which is perfect when you’ve had your life ripped out from under you.’
Moira’s journey captured the essence of resilience wrapped in humor. ‘Moira just has so much to show, she believes, but doesn’t know quite what that is yet,’ O’Hara said. ‘And if you can externally present different versions of yourself with the help of great wigs and wardrobe, then it boosts your confidence. I have more to me, too. I can be different. I can still grow.’
Reflecting on the role’s unexpected success, O’Hara admitted, ‘I had no idea that anyone else would care. I said, “Can I wear different wigs all the time?” and they said, “Yes!”‘ The wigs evolved into a beloved running joke, symbolizing Moira’s unyielding flair.
Tributes from Fellow Stars
Colleagues have shared heartfelt remembrances, underscoring O’Hara’s impact. Michael Keaton, her co-star in Beetlejuice, posted on social media: ‘She’s been my pretend wife, my pretend nemesis and my real life, true friend. This one hurts. Man am I gonna miss her.’
Pedro Pascal, who appeared with her in The Last of Us, wrote: ‘There is less light in my world, this lucky world that had you, will keep you, always. Always.’
Actress Rita Wilson described her as ‘a woman who was authentic and truthful in all she did.’ Craig Mazin, the writer and producer of The Last of Us, added: ‘It all hurts terribly. Goodbye, you legend… you wonderful, brilliant, kind, beautiful human being. We were lucky to have had you at all.’
Macaulay Culkin honored his on-screen mother with a poignant Instagram post: ‘Mama. I thought we had time… I love you,’ accompanied by a film still and a recent photo of them together.
O’Hara’s legacy endures through her fearless commitment to comedy, her avoidance of self-deprecation for laughs, and her genuine spirit. She leaves behind a husband, two sons, and a body of work that continues to inspire laughter and admiration.
