News of Catherine O'Hara's death at the age of 71 has reverberated throughout the entertainment industry and beyond, prompting an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, fans, and admirers worldwide. The Emmy-winning comedian, best known for her roles in "Schitt's Creek," "Home Alone," and "Beetlejuice," passed away on January 30, 2026, at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness.
Bollywood stars have also joined in mourning the loss of the iconic actress. Kareena Kapoor Khan, known for her roles in numerous Bollywood hits, expressed her sorrow on social media. While specific details of her tribute are unavailable, her acknowledgment highlights O'Hara's widespread influence. Alia Bhatt, another prominent figure in Indian cinema, also paid her respects. Specifics of Bhatt's tribute remain unconfirmed, but her acknowledgment underscores the global impact of O'Hara's work. Ileana D’Cruz, recognized for her performances in both Bollywood and Telugu cinema, described the news as "heart-wrenching," conveying the deep sense of loss felt by many.
O'Hara's career spanned over five decades, beginning in the 1970s with the sketch comedy show "Second City Television". Her breakthrough roles in blockbuster movies like "Home Alone" and "Beetlejuice" solidified her status as a comedic force. More recently, her portrayal of Moira Rose in the Canadian comedy series "Schitt's Creek" brought her a new wave of recognition, earning her a Primetime Emmy Award and a Golden Globe Award. In 2024, she lent her voice to Pinktail in the animated film, "The Wild Robot". Her last on-screen appearance was in the comedy "The Studio".
O'Hara's agency, CAA, confirmed her death, stating that she passed away at her home in Los Angeles after a brief illness. News outlets report that she had been absent in recent months, her last public appearance being at the Emmys in September 2025.
Tributes have poured in from fellow actors and industry figures. Dan Levy, her "Schitt's Creek" co-star, referred to O'Hara as "family" and expressed how hard it is to imagine a world without her. Meryl Streep, who co-starred with O'Hara in "Heartburn," spoke of the "love and light" O'Hara brought to the world through her compassionate portrayals of eccentric characters. Michael Keaton, a long-time friend and colleague, mourned the loss, reflecting on their close bond. Macaulay Culkin, who played her son in "Home Alone," shared a touching tribute on Instagram, writing, "Mama. I thought we had time".
Born in Toronto, Canada, on March 4, 1954, Catherine O'Hara held dual Canadian and American citizenship. She is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, whom she married in 1992, and her two sons, Matthew and Luke. O'Hara's legacy extends beyond her numerous awards and accolades. She shaped generations of comedy with her intelligence, restraint, and daring specificity. Her ability to transform eccentricity into emotional truth made her a singular talent, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
