Legendary Actress Catherine O’Hara Dies at 71

Catherine O’Hara, the beloved actress known for her work in television and film, has died at the age of 71, news outlets report. Her death was confirmed on Friday, January 30, 2026. The cause of her death has not yet been made public.

O’Hara had a long and successful career in entertainment. She gained widespread fame for playing Moira Rose on the hit comedy series Schitt’s Creek for all 80 episodes of the show’s run. Her performance won her major awards, including a Primetime Emmy, a Golden Globe, and a Screen Actors Guild Award, and made her a fan favorite around the world.

She was also known for iconic movie roles. O’Hara played Kate McCallister, the mother of Kevin in the holiday films Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. She appeared in other memorable movies like Best in Show and A Mighty Wind, as well as Beetlejuice and its 2024 sequel.

In recent years, O’Hara worked on the Apple TV+ series The Studio, starring alongside Seth Rogen, for which she received an Emmy nomination.

Born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto, Canada, O’Hara began her career in comedy and sketch work before moving into film and television. She held dual Canadian and American citizenship and was widely respected in the entertainment community for her talent and versatility.

O’Hara was married to production designer Bo Welch. The couple had two sons and had been together for more than three decades.

Fans, fellow performers, and critics alike are mourning her passing, remembering her as a comedy legend whose work touched many generations.