Top News

The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Catherine O’Hara, who passed away on January 30, 2026, aged 71, at her residence in Los Angeles following a brief illness. Known globally for her distinctive comic timing and emotionally rich performances, O’Hara remained a respected figure across generations of film and television audiences.

Reports indicate paramedics responded to a medical emergency early Friday morning. The exact cause of death has not yet been officially confirmed. She reportedly lived with dextrocardia with situs inversus, a rare congenital condition, though there is no confirmation linking it to her passing.

A career that defined generations of comedy

O’Hara rose to prominence through The Second City and later became a household name through SCTV. She achieved global fame portraying Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, winning an Emmy Award in 2020.

Film audiences remember her deeply as Kevin’s mother in Home Alone, and for her work in Best in Show and Beetlejuice. Her later career included projects with Seth Rogen and appearances linked to The Last of Us universe nominations.

Personal life and legacy

Born in Toronto in 1954, O’Hara built a five-decade career marked by versatility. She married production designer Bo Welch in 1992 and is survived by their two sons. Industry peers have praised her humility, warmth, and mentorship of younger actors.

With an estimated net worth of $10 million, her legacy lies less in wealth and more in cultural impact. Her characters — particularly Moira Rose — reshaped modern television comedy and strengthened representation of strong, eccentric women on screen.

O’Hara’s passing marks the end of an era in character-driven comedy, but her work will continue inspiring performers worldwide.