Home Alone star Catherine O'Hara dies at 71
Beloved actress Catherine O’Hara has died at the age of 71, her representatives confirmed Friday.
She passed away at her home in Los Angeles after a brief illness, though officials have not publicly disclosed the exact cause of death. Emergency responders were called to her residence early Friday morning, and she was taken to a hospital in serious condition before her passing.
O’Hara, a Canadian-American comic legend, built a career spanning five decades, becoming one of Hollywood’s most cherished performers.
She first gained attention as part of the influential comedy troupe Second City Television and later earned widespread acclaim for her Emmy-winning role as Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek.
She became a household name in film with memorable performances in classics such as Home Alone, where she played Kevin McCallister’s mother, and Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice.
Her film résumé also included standout roles in Christopher Guest mockumentaries like Best in Show and A Mighty Wind.
O’Hara’s last major public appearance came at the 2025 Emmy Awards in September, where she accepted accolades and nominations, though she appeared frail on the red carpet.
She was also recently nominated for a Golden Globe for her work on the 2025 series The Studio.
Her passing has triggered an outpouring of tributes from fellow actors and fans around the world.
Home Alone co-star Macaulay Culkin led the emotional responses on social media with a heartfelt message, writing, "Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much more to say. I love you. I’ll see you later."
Other stars, including Pedro Pascal and Justin Theroux, also honoured her impact and generosity as a performer and colleague.
O’Hara is survived by her husband of more than 30 years, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke.
