Catherine O’Hara, a comedy icon whose distinctive performances shaped film and television for decades, has passed away at the age of 71.
According to her agency, O’Hara died peacefully at her Los Angeles home on Friday following a short illness. News of her passing quickly spread across the industry, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes from collaborators, fans, and admirers who grew up watching her bring warmth, wit, and unforgettable eccentricity to the screen.
O’Hara first rose to prominence through Canadian sketch comedy, helping shape the iconic series “Second City Television.” She went on to appear in a string of now-classic movies such as “After Hours,” “Beetlejuice,” and the early “Home Alone” films, where she played the frantic yet devoted mother of Kevin McCallister.
In later years, O’Hara experienced a celebrated resurgence with the hit series “Schitt’s Creek,” earning new accolades and introducing her singular comedic style to a new generation of viewers.
Among the most personal tributes came from Macaulay Culkin, who shared a heartfelt message honoring the woman who played his on-screen mother and remained a close friend off-camera.
“Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you but I had so much more to say. I love you. I’ll see you later,” wrote Culkin.
