‘I Thought We Had Time’: Macaulay Culkin Remembers Catherine O’Hara

Catherine O’Hara, beloved actor from “Home Alone” and “Schitt’s Creek,” has died at age 71, her representative confirmed on Friday. She passed away after a brief illness at her home in Los Angeles, according to reports. Her family has not released a cause of death.

O’Hara was a celebrated Canadian-American actress and comedian whose career spanned more than five decades. She was best known for her role as Kate McCallister — the mother of Kevin McCallister — in the classic holiday films “Home Alone” (1990) and “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” (1992), and for her Emmy-winning performance as Moira Rose on the hit TV series “Schitt’s Creek.”

Heartfelt Tribute from Macaulay Culkin

One of the most emotional responses came from Macaulay Culkin, who played her onscreen son Kevin in the Home Alone films. On Instagram, he wrote a touching message to O’Hara, calling her “Mama” and saying, “I thought we had time. I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you… I love you. I’ll see you later.”

Their connection extended beyond the movies. The two reunited in December 2023 when Culkin received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and O’Hara spoke warmly about him during the ceremony, praising his intelligence, humor, and impact.

Tributes Pour In

Fans, fellow actors, and colleagues have shared memories and condolences online. Stars such as Pedro Pascal and Justin Theroux posted tributes, recalling O’Hara’s generosity, talent, and influence in the entertainment world.

A Remarkable Career

O’Hara’s work earned her wide acclaim. In addition to Home Alone and Schitt’s Creek, she appeared in films like Beetlejuice and Best in Show, and contributed voice work to animated movies. Her performances made her a familiar and beloved figure to generations of movie and television fans.

She is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons. Plans for a memorial service have not yet been announced.