Catherine O’Hara, the esteemed Canadian-American actress celebrated for her dynamic roles in Home Alone, Schitt’s Creek, and Beetlejuice, passed away at the age of 71 on January 30, 2026, in Los Angeles after a brief illness. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/9fdc89411b4961c1d599f836503a6203?utm_source=openai)) Her sudden departure has left a profound void in the entertainment industry, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike.
A Storied Career
O’Hara’s illustrious career spanned over five decades, beginning with her involvement in Toronto’s Second City comedy troupe. She gained prominence through the sketch show SCTV, collaborating with comedy legends such as Eugene Levy, Martin Short, and John Candy. Her filmography boasts iconic roles, including Delia Deetz in Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice, Kate McCallister in the Home Alone series, and Moira Rose in the critically acclaimed Schitt’s Creek, a performance that earned her an Emmy Award in 2020. ([time.com](https://time.com/7362820/catherine-ohara-obituary/?utm_source=openai))
Final Role in The Studio
In her final television role, O’Hara portrayed Patty Leigh in Apple TV’s The Studio, a series created by and starring Seth Rogen. Her character, a seasoned studio executive, added depth and humor to the show, which premiered in March 2025 to widespread acclaim. O’Hara’s performance was lauded, earning her nominations from the Emmys, SAG Awards, and Golden Globes. ([macobserver.com](https://www.macobserver.com/news/seth-rogen-and-apple-tv-cast-mourn-catherine-ohara-after-her-sudden-death/?utm_source=openai))
Tributes from Colleagues
Seth Rogen, deeply affected by O’Hara’s passing, shared a heartfelt tribute:
I told O’Hara when I first met her I thought she was the funniest person I’d ever had the pleasure of watching on screen. ‘Home Alone’ was the movie that made me want to make movies. Getting to work with her was a true honor. She was hysterical, kind, intuitive, generous… she made me want to make our show good enough to be worthy of her presence in it. This is just devastating. We’re all lucky we got to live in a world with her in it. ([arcamax.com](https://www.arcamax.com/entertainment/entertainmenttoday/s-3997314?utm_source=openai))
Ike Barinholtz, who co-starred with O’Hara in The Studio, expressed his sorrow:
I never in a million years thought I would get to work with Catherine O’Hara, let alone become friends with her. So profoundly sad she’s somewhere else now. So incredibly grateful I got to spend the time I did with her. Thank you, Catherine. I love you. ([aol.com](https://www.aol.com/lifestyle/catherine-oharas-final-role-studio-231724653.html?utm_source=openai))
Industry-Wide Mourning
The impact of O’Hara’s death resonated throughout the entertainment industry. Macaulay Culkin, her on-screen son in Home Alone, expressed his grief, highlighting the deep bond they shared. ([latimes.com](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2026-01-30/catherine-ohara-dies-macaulay-culkin-home-alone-mom-tribute?utm_source=openai)) Michael Keaton, her co-star in Beetlejuice, reminisced about their long-standing friendship and professional collaborations. ([latimes.com](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2026-01-30/catherine-ohara-dies-macaulay-culkin-home-alone-mom-tribute?utm_source=openai)) Director Tim Burton shared a poignant message, emphasizing the light O’Hara brought to their projects. ([latimes.com](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2026-01-30/catherine-ohara-dies-macaulay-culkin-home-alone-mom-tribute?utm_source=openai))
Legacy and Impact
Catherine O’Hara’s legacy is marked by her unparalleled comedic timing, versatility, and the warmth she brought to every role. Her contributions to film and television have left an indelible mark, inspiring countless actors and comedians. As tributes continue to pour in, it is evident that her influence will endure for generations to come.
