Veteran Canadian-American actress Catherine O’Hara has died at the age of 71, her representatives confirmed on Friday, January 30, 2026. The Emmy-winning performer, who rose to global fame with unforgettable roles in both film and television, passed away at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, according to statements from her agency, Creative Artists Agency.
O’Hara’s distinguished career spanned more than five decades, leaving an indelible mark on comedy and popular culture. She is perhaps best known for her portrayal of the eccentric Moira Rose in the critically acclaimed sitcom Schitt’s Creek, a role that won her widespread acclaim and an Emmy Award in 2020.
Born in Toronto in 1954, O’Hara began her career with the influential sketch comedy ensemble Second City Television (SCTV), where her talent for sharp wit and character work first drew widespread attention. She later crossed over into film, appearing in beloved productions such as Home Alone, Beetlejuice, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and several Christopher Guest mockumentaries.
Her performance as Kevin McCallister’s harried mother in the Home Alone films earned her recognition with global audiences, while her later work in Schitt’s Creek brought her renewed international admiration and a younger fan base. News of O’Hara’s death sparked an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans and industry figures around the world.
Schitt’s Creek co-creator and star Dan Levy paid heartfelt tribute to O’Hara’s brilliance and the deep creative bond they shared. Other performers, including Macaulay Culkin and Pedro Pascal, remembered her as a generous and distinctive talent whose work brought joy and inspiration to many. O’Hara’s legacy is defined by her versatility, fearless comedic presence and the warmth she brought to every role.
Beyond her major onscreen successes, she built a reputation as a performer capable of balancing humour with emotional depth, captivating audiences across generations. She is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons, Luke and Matthew. The family is expected to hold a private celebration of her life.
