Catherine O'Hara Dead at 71

Published: Friday, January 30, 2026 at 6:05 pm

Hollywood Icon Catherine O'Hara Passes Away

Hollywood is mourning the loss of actress Catherine O'Hara, who has died at the age of 71. Sources with direct knowledge confirmed the news to TMZ, though the cause of death remains undisclosed.

O'Hara leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances across film and television. She is perhaps best known for her role as Moira Rose in the critically acclaimed series "Schitt's Creek," a role that earned her an Emmy Award in 2020. Her work on the show spanned 80 episodes.

Her career also included iconic roles in the "Home Alone" franchise, where she played the mother of Macaulay Culkin's character. Other notable film credits include the mockumentaries "Best in Show" and "A Mighty Wind," as well as the original "Beetlejuice" and its upcoming sequel, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice." Her most recent work was in the Apple TV+ series "The Studio," alongside Seth Rogen, for which she received an Emmy nomination.

O'Hara's career began in sketch comedy, earning her an Emmy in 1982 for her writing contributions to "SCTV Network 90." Born and raised in Toronto, she was the sixth of seven children. She met her husband, production designer Bo Welch, on the set of the 1988 film "Beetlejuice." The couple married in 1992 and had two sons, Matthew and Luke.

The actress was last seen by a TMZ photographer at LAX in February 2024. When asked what role she would most want to be remembered for, O'Hara offered a glimpse into her enduring impact.

BNN's Perspective: Catherine O'Hara's passing is a significant loss for the entertainment industry. Her versatility and comedic timing brought joy to audiences for decades. While her roles in "Schitt's Creek" and "Home Alone" cemented her status as a beloved figure, her extensive body of work demonstrates a talent that extended far beyond these iconic performances. Her contributions to the arts will be remembered.

Keywords: Catherine O'Hara, death, Schitt's Creek, Home Alone, Best in Show, Beetlejuice, Emmy Award, actress, Hollywood, Moira Rose, obituary, celebrity, entertainment, Toronto

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