Veteran actress Catherine O’Hara, whose voice, warmth and comedic genius lit up screens for decades, has died at the age of 71. The Emmy-winning performer passed away on Friday at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, her representatives confirmed.

O’Hara’s career was nothing short of legendary - from her breakout work in Canadian sketch comedy to becoming a household name around the world.
She first gained attention with the influential comedy troupe Second City Television in the 1970s, a launchpad that showcased her sharp wit and character mastery.

But it was her roles in film and television that cemented her place in pop culture:
As Kevin McCallister’s exasperated mother in the holiday classic Home Alone and its sequel, she became part of cinema history.

Her turn as Moira Rose in the beloved sitcom Schitt’s Creek won her an Emmy and earned her fan-favorite status across generations.
She also shone in films like Beetlejuice, Best in Show, and A Mighty Wind, and lent her voice to many animated favorites.
In recent years, O’Hara continued to impress with roles in The Last of Us and The Studio, earning even more Emmy nods and proving her range well into the later stages of her career.

Her loss has triggered an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans alike, including heartfelt messages from Home Alone co-star Macaulay Culkin and a host of Hollywood peers - all reflecting on her talent, kindness, and the laughter she brought into so many lives.
Catherine O’Hara’s impact on comedy and entertainment was profound - a rare performer whose work will continue to be celebrated for years to come.