Catherine O’Hara, the beloved actress and comedian celebrated for her roles in Home Alone and Schitt’s Creek, has died at the age of 71, her agency confirmed on January 30, 2026. The news was announced by her representatives, who said she passed away at her Los Angeles home following a brief illness.
O’Hara’s career spanned more than five decades across film, television and stage, and she was widely admired for her versatility, sharp wit and ability to bring depth to both comedic and dramatic roles. Her work earned her numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe.
Born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto, Canada, O’Hara began her career in comedy with the renowned improvisational troupe The Second City. She later starred on the sketch comedy series SCTV, which became a launching pad for her work alongside fellow comedians. Over the years, she built a reputation as one of the most distinctive comedic talents in the industry.
O’Hara reached global recognition with her role as Kate McCallister, the resourceful mother in the classic holiday film Home Alone (1990) and its sequel Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992). Her performance remains one of the most enduring aspects of the franchise and continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
In 1988, she appeared as Delia Deetz in Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice, further showcasing her ability to handle off-beat and memorable characters. She also worked with director Christopher Guest in several acclaimed mockumentaries, including Best in Show and A Mighty Wind.
In later years, O’Hara experienced a career renaissance through television, most notably with the hit comedy series Schitt’s Creek, where she played Moira Rose. Her performance earned her critical acclaim, including Emmy and Golden Globe awards. She also appeared in other popular series such as The Last of Us and The Studio, earning award nominations for her work.
Her final public appearances included attending the 2025 Emmy Awards, where she was recognised for her ongoing contributions to television and film. Just four months before her passing, she appeared on the red carpet and remained engaged with her craft and collaborators.
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry and beyond. Macaulay Culkin, who played her son in Home Alone, posted a heartfelt message recalling their bond. Fellow actors and filmmakers, including Meryl Streep, Pedro Pascal and Christopher Guest, expressed their admiration and sorrow, celebrating O’Hara’s profound impact on audiences and colleagues alike.
O’Hara is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons. Her contributions to comedy, film and television have left an indelible mark, and she is remembered as one of the most charismatic performers of her generation.
