Catherine O’Hara, Canadian-American actress and comedic icon, ‘Schitt’s Creek’ &‘Home Alone’ & “love and light.” Star, Dies at 71

Catherine O’Hara, the Canadian-American actress and comedic icon, has died at the age of 71

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Catherine O’Hara, the Canadian-American actress and comedic icon known for decades of unforgettable performances, has died at the age of 71. Her passing was confirmed on January 30, 2026, by her representatives; she died at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, according to multiple reports. 

O’Hara’s work spanned film, television, and voice acting over five decades, with some of the most memorable roles in comedy and pop culture history:

• Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek — a role that earned her widespread acclaim and multiple awards, including two Emmys, and introduced her to a new generation of fans. 

• Kate McCallister — the frantic yet loving mother in Home Alone and Home Alone 2, roles that became cultural touchstones for holiday cinema. 

• Delia Deetz in Beetlejuice — another classic performance in one of Tim Burton’s most beloved films.

• Supporting and ensemble roles in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries (Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, Waiting for Guffman), showcasing her fearlessly versatile comedic talent.

• Voice roles in beloved animated films such as The Nightmare Before Christmas.

• Recent dramatic and genre work, including Emmy-nominated turns in HBO’s The Last of Us and Seth Rogen’s The Studio on Apple TV+. 

She began her career in the 1970s with Toronto’s Second City improv troupe, rising to prominence alongside other comedy greats. 

The news of her passing elicited moving responses from fans and fellow artists around the world:

• Macaulay Culkin, her onscreen “son” from Home Alone, posted that he thought they still “had time” and expressed deep love and loss. 

• Meryl Streep called her a source of “love and light.” 

• Michael Keaton, a longtime friend and Beetlejuice co-star, emphasised the depth of their connection. 

• Pedro Pascal described her as a “genius” whose absence leaves “less light in my world.” 

• Countless other actors, directors, writers, and fans shared memories and gratitude for her influence and warmth.