Catherine O’Hara, Star of Home Alone and Schitt’s Creek, Passes at 71
Catherine O’Hara, renowned for her roles in “Home Alone” and “Schitt’s Creek,” has passed away at the age of 71. Her manager confirmed the news, stating she succumbed to a brief illness.
Career Highlights
O’Hara began her comedy career in the 1970s, contributing to the influential Canadian sketch show SCTV. She transitioned to film in the 1980s, with notable appearances in:
- “Nothing Personal” (1980) alongside Donald Sutherland
- “After Hours” (1985) directed by Martin Scorsese
- “Beetlejuice” (1988), a Tim Burton classic
In “Home Alone” (1990), she portrayed the hapless mother of Macaulay Culkin’s character, a role she reprised in the sequel. In 2024, she reflected on her experience with the film, calling it a “perfect movie.”
Collaboration with Christopher Guest
In 1996, O’Hara began a fruitful collaboration with filmmaker Christopher Guest. She starred in several of his mockumentaries, including:
- “Waiting for Guffman”
- “Best in Show”
- “A Mighty Wind”
- “For Your Consideration”
O’Hara was also known for her voice work in animated films such as “Chicken Little” and “Monster House.”
Television Achievements
Her television career featured roles in various acclaimed series, including:
- “The Larry Sanders Show”
- “Six Feet Under”
- “Curb Your Enthusiasm”
- “30 Rock”
O’Hara gained widespread recognition for her role in “Schitt’s Creek,” where she worked alongside Eugene Levy. The series, which focused on a wealthy family’s fall from grace, ran for six successful seasons, earning O’Hara an Emmy Award.
Recent Projects
Most recently, she appeared in the award-winning comedy series “The Studio,” which earned her nominations for both an Emmy and a Golden Globe. O’Hara’s ability to portray quirky characters with a unique charm endeared her to audiences and critics alike.
Legacy
Throughout her career, Catherine O’Hara showcased remarkable talent and versatility, leaving an indelible mark on both film and television. Her contributions to the entertainment industry will always be cherished by fans and colleagues.
