The passing of Catherine O’Hara, the cherished Canadian actress known for her memorable roles in films like “Home Alone” and “Beetlejuice,” has left a void in the hearts of her admirers. O’Hara, who passed away at the age of 71 after a brief illness, is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, their adult sons Matthew and Luke, and her siblings.
Hailing from Toronto, O’Hara gained fame for her iconic performances in a variety of productions spanning from the 1970s to recent years. Her notable works include appearances in “Best in Show,” “Schitt’s Creek,” “The Last of Us,” and more. A founding member of the original cast of “SCTV,” O’Hara was celebrated for her talent and wit, earning accolades such as an Emmy award for outstanding writing in a variety program.
Colleagues and friends, such as Martin Short and Christopher Guest, expressed their grief over O’Hara’s passing, highlighting her immense contributions to the entertainment industry. Dan Levy, her co-star on “Schitt’s Creek,” fondly recalled their enduring collaboration and the impact O’Hara had on his life.
The news of O’Hara’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow actors like Macaulay Culkin, Seth Rogen, Michael Keaton, and Meryl Streep, who praised her comedic brilliance and versatility on screen. O’Hara’s significant influence was not limited to her acting prowess; she was also honored in her home country, receiving the distinction of Officer of the Order of Canada and earning a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame.
Political figures, including Prime Minister Mark Carney and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, mourned the loss of a national treasure and shared heartfelt messages commemorating O’Hara’s legacy. The Mayor of Mississauga, Ont., Carolyn Parrish, reminisced about O’Hara’s early days as a student, describing her as a remarkable individual with a bright future ahead.
The void left by Catherine O’Hara’s passing is deeply felt by fans, colleagues, and the entertainment community at large. Her remarkable talent, infectious humor, and enduring impact on Canadian culture will be dearly missed.