Remembering Catherine O’Hara: The Comedy Legend Dies at 71

**LOS ANGELES** — Catherine O’Hara, the Emmy-winning actress, writer, and comedian whose career bridged the worlds of cult sketch comedy and global cinematic blockbusters, has passed away. She was 71.

Her agency, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), confirmed in a statement that O’Hara died on Friday, January 30, 2026, at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness. The news has sent waves of grief through the entertainment industry, where she was revered as a "comedian's comedian" and a versatile dramatic talent.

A Legacy of Laughter: From SCTV to Moira Rose

Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1954, O’Hara began her career at the legendary Second City improvisational theater. She rose to fame in the mid-1970s as a founding cast member of *SCTV* (*Second City Television*). It was here that she developed her signature style—a blend of sharp wit, physical comedy, and an uncanny ability to disappear into eccentric characters.

While many know her as the frantic Kate McCallister in the *Home Alone* films, O’Hara's career was defined by her long-standing collaborations. Her work with Christopher Guest in mockumentaries like *Waiting for Guffman* and *Best in Show* showcased her improvisational brilliance.

In her later years, O’Hara experienced a massive career resurgence with the hit series *Schitt’s Creek*. Her portrayal of the delightfully pretentious Moira Rose earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2020, as well as a Golden Globe.

Tributes Pour In from Hollywood

As news of her passing spread, colleagues and friends took to social media to honor the late star.

Macaulay Culkin, who played her son Kevin in *Home Alone*, shared a poignant tribute: "Mama, I thought we had time. I heard you but I had so much more to say. I love you."

Mike Myers, a fellow Canadian comedy icon, released a statement to CTV News calling it "a very sad day for Comedy and Canada." He added, "She was one of the greatest comedy artists in history, an inspiration for millions and above all a very elegant lady."

A Final Act of Brilliance

O’Hara remained active in the industry until her final days. Recently, she reprised her role as Delia Deetz in the 2024 sequel to *Beetlejuice* and appeared in the Apple TV+ series *The Studio*. Fans are also looking forward to her posthumous appearance in the second season of HBO’s *The Last of Us*, where she reportedly took on a significant dramatic role.

Beyond her accolades, including being named an Officer of the Order of Canada, Catherine O’Hara will be remembered for the warmth and humanity she brought to even her most "difficult" characters.

She is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke.