Catherine O’Hara, Beloved ‘Home Alone’ and ‘Schitt’s Creek’ Star, Dies at 71

Catherine O’Hara, the beloved star known for her iconic roles in “Home Alone,” “Beetlejuice,” and “Schitt’s Creek,” has passed away at the age of 71. The actress died at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, as confirmed by her representatives from CAA.

Catherine O’Hara’s Career Highlights

Born in Canada, O’Hara began her career at Second City, a renowned improvisational comedy venue. She later transitioned to film, showcasing her unique comedic timing and emotional depth.

Memorable Film Roles

• Beetlejuice (1988): O’Hara portrayed Delia Deetz, a quirky mother known for her memorable lines and distinct style.
• Home Alone (1990): She earned fame as the frantic mother who famously yelled “KEVIN!” after forgetting her son during a holiday trip. This movie continues to resonate as a Christmas classic.
• Home Alone Sequel (1992): O’Hara returned to her iconic role in the sequel.

Her performance in “Home Alone” was celebrated by director Chris Columbus, who stated that O’Hara’s contribution was crucial to the film’s success. Columbus expressed his heartbreak over her passing and noted that she shared a unique bond with John Candy, another beloved figure from the film.

Television Success

O’Hara’s television career flourished with her role as Moira Rose in the critically acclaimed series “Schitt’s Creek.” This character, a posh actress, earned her both an Emmy and a Golden Globe, highlighting her exceptional talent.

Legacy and Tributes

As tributes poured in from colleagues and fans, her on-screen son Macaulay Culkin expressed his sadness on social media, referring to O’Hara as “mama.” Eugene Levy, her frequent collaborator, shared his devastation over the loss of a comic giant.

• Significant Awards:
  • Emmy Award for “Schitt’s Creek” (2020)
  • Golden Globe for “Schitt’s Creek” (2021)

Pedro Pascal, who admired O’Hara’s work, called her a “genius” in a heartfelt tribute. O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke. The family plans a private celebration of her life.

Catherine O’Hara leaves behind a legacy filled with laughter, emotion, and a significant impact on the film and television industry.