Hollywood has lost one of its most beloved comedic talents, with Catherine O’Hara passing away on Friday at the age of 71, sources with direct knowledge have confirmed to TMZ.
The Canadian-born actress made her final public appearance at the Emmy Awards ceremony in September, where observers noted she appeared frail on the red carpet. Her death comes approximately four months after that outing, though the cause has not been disclosed.
O’Hara’s career spanned decades and encompassed multiple genres, earning her recognition as both a comedic force and dramatic performer. She achieved widespread acclaim for her portrayal of the flamboyant Moira Rose throughout all 80 episodes of the critically lauded sitcom Schitt’s Creek, which ran from 2015 to 2020.
The role brought O’Hara’s eccentric comedic style to a new generation of viewers and earned her numerous accolades for her performance as the former soap opera star adjusting to small-town life alongside her wealthy family.
Prior to Schitt’s Creek, O’Hara had already established herself as a Hollywood icon through her memorable performance in the Christmas classic Home Alone franchise. She portrayed the mother of Macaulay Culkin’s character in the first two instalments of the beloved film series, delivering performances that became synonymous with the holiday season for millions of families.
Her collaboration with director Christopher Guest produced several critically acclaimed mockumentary films that showcased her improvisational talents. O’Hara appeared in Best in Show in 2000 and A Mighty Wind in 2003, both of which demonstrated her ability to create complex, comedic characters within ensemble casts.
The actress’s contributions to comedy extended beyond these high-profile projects, with a body of work that influenced multiple generations of performers. Her distinctive voice work and physical comedy skills made her a sought-after talent throughout her career.
Details regarding memorial services or tributes have not yet been announced. The entertainment industry is expected to honour O’Hara’s legacy in the coming days as colleagues and fans process the loss of the celebrated performer.
O’Hara’s passing leaves a significant void in comedy, with her unique blend of warmth and absurdist humour having touched countless viewers across multiple platforms and decades of work.
