Veteran actress Catherine O’Hara has died at the age of 71, her representatives have confirmed. The Canadian-born star, known for her performance as Kevin McCallister’s mother in Home Alone and for her Emmy-winning role as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, passed away on Friday at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness.
O’Hara’s talent spanned more than five decades, and she appeared in a wide range of beloved films and television series, including Beetlejuice, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and several acclaimed mockumentaries. She also had memorable roles in The Last of Us and the Apple TV+ series The Studio shortly before her death.
Representatives said that emergency services were called to her residence early on Friday morning after she experienced breathing difficulties and was taken to the hospital in serious condition. She later died following what her agency described as a brief illness.
Fans and colleagues have paid tribute to O’Hara’s legacy, remembering her for her warmth, humor, and remarkable range as an actress. Her Home Alone co-star Macaulay Culkin shared an emotional message on social media, expressing deep sorrow and admiration for their long-standing friendship.
O’Hara is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons.
