Image via The Lamron
Staff Writer: Aliyah Santana
Email: asantana5@umassd.edu
World renowned Canadian actress, Catherine O’Hara has recently passed at the age of seventy-one. Her cause of death has been listed as a pulmonary embolism with rectal cancer being the underlying cause. She was previously hospitalized for a breathing issue, and diagnosed with a rare heart condition called, dextrocardia with situs in versus in 2021.
O’Hara was born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto, making her a Pisces. She was the sixth of seven children of Margaret Ann and Marcus O’Hara. She graduated from Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Institute in 1974 and quickly became a loved figure. She has dual citizenship in Canada and the US.
Catherine O’Hara met production designer and director Bo Welch on the set of Beetlejuice in 1988. They married in 1992 and have two sons, Luke and Matthew Welch, who both work behind the scenes in the entertainment industry.
Catherine O’Hara has been in many movies, cartoons, was an SNL host, and changed the lives of many. She starred in at least fifty-three different roles and is most known for her roles as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, Kate McCallister in Home Alone, and Delia Deere in the 1988 film Beetlejuice.
As the news began to spread, tributes from those who got to work alongside her quickly began to roll in. “She is an utter genius,” Seth Rogan said, recalling their time together on the comedy series The Studio that aired in 2025.
O’Hara’s Hollywood career has spanned over five decades. It began with a Canadian comedy series, Second City Television, for which she received her first Emmy
Dextrocardia with Situs Inversus is a rare heart condition in which the heart is abnormally positioned to the right side of the chest, with the heart chambers also reversed. However, those affected can usually live a normal life without struggling with associated symptoms or disability.
Catherine O’Hara remained very active in the entertainment industry well into her later years. She continued acting, voice acting, and making guest appearances, showing her deep love for performance. Fans admire her ability to bring humor, emotion, and authenticity into every role she played.
Her portrayal of Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek became one of the most iconic television performances of modern comedy. The character’s dramatic personality, unique accent, and unforgettable wardrobe made Moira a Gen-Z phenomenon. Her performance earned her multiple awards and widespread praise.
O’Hara’s impact went way past the screen. Fellow actors, directors, and writers described her as kind, humble, and incredibly talented. As the entertainment world continues to reflect on her passing, many networks and streaming platforms are honoring her with tributes of her most memorable performances.
Fans around the world have quickly expressed their sadness and gratitude for the joy she has brought into their lives. Social media quickly filled with tributes, favorite quotes, and memories from her films and tv shows. From holiday traditions watching Home Alone, to the laughter that was brought by her comedic performances. O’Hara’s influence will continues to live on through her work. As a personal Schitt’s Creek fan, this news was devastating! Moira’s sass and quips have become famous sounds on TikTok.
Catherine O’Hara leaves behind a powerful legacy. Though she is no longer present, her voice, humor, and unforgettable characters will remain timeless. From comedy to heartfelt storytelling, she will be remembered not only for her talent, but her warm humor and humanity her performance will continues to entertain and inspire audiences for generations to come!