Hollywood mourns iconic actress Catherine O’Hara

Catherine O’Hara, renowned for her decades-long career in comedy and film, has died at the age of 71 following a brief illness, her representative confirmed Friday.

Her passing at her Los Angeles home sparked a wave of tributes across Hollywood and beyond, highlighting her unique talent and warm spirit.

O’Hara’s career spanned more than fifty years, beginning with Toronto’s Second City comedy troupe before moving into film and television. 

According to Daily Mail, she earned widespread acclaim for her Emmy-winning performance as Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek, and became a household name through her role as Kevin McCallister’s befuddled mother in the holiday classic Home Alone.

Moreover, the actress also voiced Sally in the beloved stop-motion animated film The Nightmare Before Christmas, directed by Henry Selick, a role that endeared her to generations of animation fans.

Tributes poured in from colleagues and admirers. 

Home Alone co-star Macaulay Culkin shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, remembering her as “Mama” and lamenting that he “thought we had time.” 

Fellow actors including Pedro Pascal, Seth Rogen, Michael Keaton and Dan Levy praised her comedic genius, kindness and influence on their lives and careers.

O’Hara is survived by her husband of 33 years, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons, Luke and Matthew. 

Her legacy as one of comedy’s most cherished figures remains celebrated by audiences and peers alike.