Legendary comedic actress Catherine O’Hara has passed away at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and memorable performances. The news of her death was confirmed by her agents on Friday night, who revealed that she had died at her home in Los Angeles after a brief illness.
Catherine’s career spanned over four decades, and she was known for her versatile acting skills and impeccable comedic timing. She first rose to fame as a cast member on the Canadian sketch series Second City Television, where she won her first Emmy in 1982. From there, she continued to make a name for herself in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with her talent and charm.
One of Catherine’s most notable roles was in the popular comedy film, Beetlejuice, where she played the eccentric Delia Deetz. Her performance in the movie was met with critical acclaim and solidified her as a talented comedic actress. She also starred in other iconic films such as Home Alone and its sequel, After Hours, and various Christopher Guest mockumentaries.
In addition to her work on the big screen, Catherine was also a prolific voice actor. She lent her voice to beloved characters in films like Disney’s Chicken Little and The Nightmare Before Christmas, where she provided both the speaking and singing voice for Sally. She also voiced characters in popular TV shows, including the Apple TV+ comedy Central Park.
However, it was her role as the iconic Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek that truly endeared Catherine to audiences worldwide. The show, which premiered in 2015, was a sleeper hit and ran for six successful seasons, earning all four of its main cast members Emmy wins. Catherine’s portrayal of the eccentric matriarch was praised for its nuance and comedic brilliance, earning her a Golden Globe and Screen Actors’ Guild Award in 2020.
Despite her success on television, Catherine also continued to make appearances on the big screen. Last year, she made a guest appearance in the second season of The Last Of Us, playing the therapist of Pedro Pascal’s character Joel. She also joined the cast of Seth Rogen’s hit comedy, The Studio, where she played the role of studio-head-turned-producer Patty Leigh. Her performance in the series garnered her yet another nomination at both the Emmys and Golden Globes.
Catherine’s talent and versatility were unmatched, and she will be deeply missed by her fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter and unforgettable performances, and her impact will continue to be felt for years to come.
She is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this difficult time. Catherine O’Hara may be gone, but her indelible mark on the entertainment world will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Catherine.
