Catherine O’Hara was a celebrated figure in the entertainment industry, with her career spanning several decades. She first captured the hearts of audiences in the 1990s as the loving and eccentric mother in the holiday classics “Home Alone” and its sequel, “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.” Her portrayal of the frantic yet lovable Kate McCallister became iconic, making her a household name. These films showcased her comedic timing and ability to convey deep emotion, captivating the hearts of viewers and elevating her status within Hollywood.
In recent years, O’Hara experienced a renaissance of sorts through her role as Moira Rose in the hit series “Schitt’s Creek.” In this acclaimed comedy, she starred alongside Eugene Levy, portraying a former soap opera star navigating life in a small town after losing her family’s wealth. Her performance earned her numerous accolades, including several Primetime Emmy Awards. The show’s success became a cultural phenomenon, resonating with audiences worldwide, and further cementing O’Hara’s legacy in the entertainment landscape.
In September 2025, O’Hara made her last public appearance at Apple TV+’s Primetime Emmy Party in Los Angeles. Surrounded by fellow industry luminaries, she celebrated the success of her show “The Studio,” which recently garnered attention for its innovative storytelling and diverse representation.
As the news of her death spread, tributes began to pour in from colleagues and friends who had the privilege of working with O’Hara. Renowned actor Seth Rogen took to Instagram to express his sorrow, sharing poignant reflections on their first meeting. Rogen remarked, “Really don’t know what to say… 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.” He recalled how her role in “Home Alone” inspired him to pursue a career in filmmaking. “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.”
Rogen’s heartfelt tribute captures the sentiments shared by many in the entertainment fraternity. Macaulay Culkin, who played O’Hara’s son in “Home Alone,” shared his grief publicly, stating, “I thought we had time. I wanted more.” He went on to express the deep bond shared between them, saying, “I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you,” emphasizing the void left by her absence. Culkin’s emotional farewell resonated deeply, highlighting the lasting impact of her work on the lives of those who grew up watching her performances.
Furthermore, fellow cast members from “Beetlejuice” and “Schitt’s Creek” took the opportunity to pay their respects, sharing personal stories and expressing the profound influence O’Hara had on their lives and careers. Her ability to forge connections with her co-stars off-screen mirrored the relationships she portrayed on-screen, creating a sense of community and collaboration that carried throughout her career.
Catherine O’Hara’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through her work and the joy she brought to countless fans. Her contribution to the entertainment world spans generations, influencing aspiring actors, comedians, and audiences alike. O’Hara’s remarkable ability to blend humor with heartfelt emotion made her a unique talent, revered by peers and fans.
As her family prepares for this private celebration of life, tributes continue to emerge, honoring O’Hara not only for her exceptional talent but also for her compassion, kindness, and genuine spirit. The outpouring of love from the entertainment industry and fans worldwide serves as a testament to the profound impact she had during her lifetime.
In an era often caught up in transient fame, O’Hara’s ability to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her and those who adored her work sets her apart from the rest. While her passing marks a tremendous loss, her contributions to the world of comedy and film will forever resonate, reminding everyone of the joy and laughter she imparted throughout her prolific career. The private celebration planned by her family will not only commemorate the life of a beloved actress but also serve as a moment of reflection on the cherished memories she created and the joy she gifted to the world.
As the curtain falls on Catherine O’Hara’s illustrious career, fans are left with the legacy of her unforgettable roles. Her ability to tackle both comedic and dramatic performances displays the wide breadth of her talent, solidifying her place in entertainment history. Through the pain of loss, those who loved her will continue to celebrate the light she brought into their lives and the joy of her performances that will remain treasured by audiences for years to come.
In the coming weeks, as her family reflects on their loss, it is hoped that through their private gathering, they will find solace in the shared memories of Catherine O’Hara’s incredible life and enduring impact on those around her. In the words of her colleagues and friends, she will always be remembered as a cherished individual who had a remarkable gift for bringing laughter and joy to countless lives. The world will continue to honor her memory, grateful for the laughter and love she shared.