Catherine O’Hara, Legendary Star of Schitt’s Creek & Home Alone, Dies at 71
By Alexus Mosley
Catherine O’Hara, the beloved actress known for her unforgettable roles in Schitt’s Creek, Home Alone, and Beetlejuice, has died at the age of 71.
Her passing was confirmed by CAA on Friday, with a statement to Page Six reading: “We are saddened to announce the passing of Catherine O’Hara.” TMZ was first to report the news. While the cause of death has not been publicly disclosed, the Los Angeles Fire Department told media outlets that they responded to a call at her home at 4:48 a.m. local time before transporting her to the hospital in serious condition.
Born in 1954 in Toronto, Canada, O’Hara was one of seven children and began her career in 1974 at The Second City, the city’s renowned performance arts theater. She later served as an understudy on Saturday Night Live, honing the comedic instincts that would define her legendary career.
O’Hara’s breakthrough came with her role as Delia Deetz in Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice (1988), followed by her portrayal of Macaulay Culkin’s determined mother, Kate McCallister, in Home Alone (1990) and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992). Her work on Schitt’s Creek as the eccentric, scene-stealing Moira Rose brought her new acclaim, including Emmy recognition, and solidified her status as one of comedy’s greatest performers.
She is survived by her husband of 33 years, Bob Welch, and their two sons, Matthew (31) and Luke (29).
Catherine O’Hara leaves behind a legacy of comedic brilliance, unforgettable characters, and a career that touched generations of audiences. Her timing, wit, and fearless performances made her one of the most admired actresses in Hollywood, and she will be dearly missed.