Catherine O’Hara, Beloved Actor of Home Alone, Beetlejuice Dies at 71

Catherine O’Hara, the beloved actor and comedian whose career spanned more than five decades, has died at the age of 71. Her passing marks the loss of a singular talent, one whose work shaped modern screen comedy while remaining deeply human at its core.

O’Hara first rose to prominence in the 1970s as a standout performer on SCTV, where her sharp instincts and fearless character work quickly distinguished her as one of the show’s most versatile comedians. Alongside collaborators such as Eugene Levy, she helped redefine sketch comedy, blending absurdity with emotional precision in a way that would define her career.

To mainstream audiences, O’Hara became instantly recognisable as Kate McCallister in Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. Her portrayal of a mother balancing panic, guilt, and determination grounded the films’ slapstick chaos with genuine warmth, helping turn them into enduring holiday staples.

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Later in life, O’Hara experienced a remarkable career resurgence with her role as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek. Her performance – marked by theatrical flair, razor-sharp delivery, and unexpected vulnerability – became one of the most iconic television characters of the 21st century. The role earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series, a Golden Globe, and multiple critics’ honours, solidifying her place among television’s greats.

Beyond her most famous roles, O’Hara’s body of work included acclaimed performances in Beetlejuice, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, and For Your Consideration, as well as memorable voice work in The Nightmare Before Christmas. In recent years, she continued to receive critical praise for her dramatic and comedic roles alike, proving her creative vitality never faded.

Catherine O’Hara’s legacy is one of intelligence, generosity, and fearless creativity. Her characters may have been exaggerated or eccentric, but they were always grounded in truth. She leaves behind a body of work that will continue to make audiences laugh,  and feel understood, for generations to come.