Catherine O'Hara, Beloved Actress of 'Schitt’s Creek' and 'Home Alone', Dies at 71

Catherine O'Hara, the acclaimed Canadian comedic actress renowned for her roles in 'Schitt’s Creek' and the 'Home Alone' films, passed away at the age of 71 on January 30, 2026, at her home in Los Angeles after a brief illness. According to reports from her agency, Creative Artists Agency, O’Hara’s death marks the end of an inspiring career that spanned over five decades and left a significant imprint on entertainment.

O’Hara began her career in the 1970s with the Second City troupe in Toronto, where she forged a lifelong professional and personal friendship with Eugene Levy. This collaboration later blossomed in the critically acclaimed TV series 'Schitt’s Creek,' created by Levy and his son Dan Levy. The show, which brought O'Hara renewed acclaim and a fresh generation of fans, earned her multiple Emmy nominations and awards, reinvigorating her career.

Beyond comedy, O’Hara expanded her repertoire with dramatic roles in the Emmy-nominated HBO series 'The Last of Us' and the Hollywood-themed 'The Studio.' She also won significant awards throughout her career, including an Emmy and two Golden Globes. Notably, she was celebrated for her portrayal of Kevin McCallister’s distressed mother in the iconic 'Home Alone' franchise, a role that became a defining part of her legacy.

O’Hara’s passing coincided with a day of mourning across the entertainment world as two other prominent figures, Mexican producer Pedro Torres and cinematographer Henner Hofmann, also died. While each excelled in distinct aspects of the industry, O’Hara’s legacy remains particularly influential globally. She is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke.

Tributes poured in for O’Hara, including heartfelt words from Macaulay Culkin, who played Kevin in 'Home Alone.' Culkin expressed, 'Thank you for your love both on and off the screen. You will always be my mom.' Her contributions to film and television, both in comedic brilliance and dramatic depth, have left an enduring mark.

As the entertainment community reflects on O’Hara’s passing, her body of work continues to inspire and entertain, illustrating the exceptional talent and warmth she brought to every role.