Beloved actress and comedian Catherine O’Hara passed away at the age of 71 at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, her agency confirmed. In the months before her death, the Schitt’s Creek and Home Alone star made several public appearances that quietly concerned fans, as she appeared noticeably thinner and more fragile than in previous years. She last walked the red carpet at the Emmy Awards in September 2025, where her slim figure and delicate frame were visible beneath an elegant gown. Earlier that year, she also appeared noticeably slender at SXSW in Austin, Texas. While no further details about her illness were released, her passing marked the end of a remarkable five-decade career that shaped modern comedy across television and film.

Born in Toronto, O’Hara began her journey at the legendary Second City, where she honed her craft alongside future comedy greats before rising to fame on Second City Television. She became a household name through unforgettable performances in Beetlejuice, Christopher Guest’s acclaimed mockumentaries like Best in Show, and as Kevin McCallister’s frantic mother in Home Alone. Later in life, she experienced a celebrated resurgence as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, earning an Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG Award. In her acceptance speech, she expressed gratitude for being allowed to fully embody a woman “of a certain age” with depth and freedom. O’Hara is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, their two sons, and her siblings. A private celebration of life will be held. Though she is gone, her singular voice, fearless humor, and lasting influence continue to resonate with audiences around the world.