Catherine O'Hara, the Emmy-winning actress best known for Schitt's Creek and Home Alone, has passed away at the age of 71. Her representatives confirmed her death on January 30, 2026, following a short illness in Los Angeles.
O'Hara rose to prominence through Canada's Second City before earning global recognition in Beetlejuice and Home Alone, where her portrayal of Kevin's panicked mother became iconic. In later years, her role as Moira Rose on Schitt's Creek earned her an Emmy and endeared her to a new generation.
Tributes have come in from co-stars including Eugene Levy, Macaulay Culkin, and Pedro Pascal, who praised her kindness, professionalism, and ability to make audiences laugh with depth and heart.
A Grounded Life Rooted in Faith and Family
Born into a large Irish Catholic family in Toronto, O'Hara once described herself as "a good Catholic girl at heart" and shared in interviews that she believed "God takes care of me." While not outspoken about her faith, she valued prayer and credited her upbringing for shaping her values and outlook. (brainyquote.com)
She married production designer Bo Welch in 1992 after meeting on the set of Beetlejuice. They raised two sons together, often keeping their private life away from the spotlight but rooted in mutual respect and joy.
O'Hara's life, marked by her unique humor, compassion, and quiet faith, leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
