Catherine O’Hara, Beloved Comedy Icon of Schitt’s Creek and Home Alone, Dies at 71

30 January 2026

Legendary actress Catherine O’Hara, whose effervescent wit and extraordinary versatility made her one of the most cherished performers in television and film, died on January 30, 2026 at the age of 71. Her passing was confirmed by her representatives, who said she died at her Los Angeles home after a brief illness that followed a sudden medical emergency, ending a remarkable career that spanned more than five decades and touched millions around the world.

Born on March 4, 1954 in Toronto, O’Hara emerged from the vibrant Canadian comedy scene of the 1970s, finding her footing with the groundbreaking sketch series Second City Television. There she developed the comedic chops and improvisational versatility that would become her trademark, performing alongside future stars such as Eugene Levy, John Candy and Martin Short. Her sharp instincts and fearless comedic energy soon set her apart, paving the way for a career that would take her from ensemble comedy to iconic film roles and ultimately to global stardom.

O’Hara’s film work showcased her ability to be uproariously funny and deeply human. She earned early acclaim in the 1980s with memorable roles in Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice, where her portrayal of Delia Deetz, eccentric, edgy, unapologetically bizarre became instantly iconic. She also endeared herself to families around the world as the beleaguered Kate McCallister in the beloved Home Alone franchise, where her comic timing and heartfelt warmth gave audiences a character as funny as she was relatable.

Her career extended beyond on-screen roles into voice work and collaborations that further cemented her place in pop culture. She lent her voice to beloved animated films including The Nightmare Before Christmas and Frankenweenie, and appeared in acclaimed ensemble mockumentary projects such as Best in Show, where her ability to find nuance and absurdity in every character earned her praise from peers and critics alike.

Yet beyond the laughter and memorable performances, it was her Emmy-winning role as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek that brought O’Hara perhaps her widest recognition. The series, co-created by Levy and his son Dan, told the story of a wealthy family forced to adjust to life in a small town, and it became a cultural phenomenon. O’Hara’s portrayal of Moira, a grandiose former soap star with an unforgettable accent and wardrobe and an even more unforgettable spirit captivated audiences and critics, earning her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and solidifying her status as a comedic force of nature.

Colleagues, co-stars and fans around the world expressed profound grief at her passing, celebrating not just her talent but her kindness, generosity and the joy she brought to every set. Eugene Levy, her longtime friend and frequent collaborator, and co-stars from Schitt’s Creek shared heartfelt tributes, echoing sentiments of loss and gratitude for a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure.

In the days leading up to her death, O’Hara had appeared in good spirits, attending public events and engaging with her craft as she continued working on projects new audiences might soon discover. Her sudden decline came as a shock to many who knew her work, with reports indicating that she was “in serious condition” after experiencing difficulty breathing before being taken to the hospital. Though no official cause of death has been publicly released, her passing marked the end of a brilliant life and career that was as vibrant off-screen as it was on.

O’Hara’s influence extended far beyond the characters she portrayed. She was a trailblazer at a time when women in comedy had to fight for visibility and respect, and she did so with a confidence and grace that inspired generations of performers. Her body of work demonstrated the power of comedic storytelling to connect people, make them laugh and, ultimately, reveal truths about the human condition.

Her legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of modern entertainment, from her early days shaping sketch comedy traditions to her later years redefining what it means to be a leading comedic actor in television and film. She managed to be both wildly funny and profoundly affecting, whether she was navigating the absurdities of a haunted house in Beetlejuice or guiding audiences through the emotional twists of Schitt’s Creek.

Beyond her professional achievements, O’Hara’s life was marked by personal warmth. She is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, whom she married in 1992, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke. The family maintained a private life even as her public influence grew, and those close to her remembered her as a devoted mother and partner whose generosity of spirit was evident to all who encountered her.

As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, including from fellow artists and institutions that honoured her with awards and accolades throughout her career, the resonance of Catherine O’Hara’s contributions to comedy and culture is unmistakable. From Canadian sketch stages to Hollywood screens, she leaves behind a legacy that is as enduring as the laughter she inspired. At major events, including the 2026 Westminster Dog Show, tributes paid homage to her iconic roles and the joy she brought to audiences young and old, reminding all of the indelible mark she left on entertainment.

Catherine O’Hara lived as she performed with a brilliant instinct for timing, an infectious sense of joy and a generosity that made spaces brighter and stories richer. Her passing at 71 marks the end of an era, but her work will continue to bring laughter and inspiration to audiences for years to come.