Beloved Emmy-winning actress and comedian Catherine O’Hara has died at the age of 71, leaving behind a legacy that shaped generations of comedy lovers. Known for her sharp wit, emotional range, and fearless performances, O’Hara earned worldwide affection as the frantic yet devoted Kate McCallister in Home Alone, a role that made her a familiar face in millions of households. Decades later, she experienced a celebrated career resurgence as the gloriously eccentric Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, a performance that earned her major awards and reintroduced her brilliance to a new generation of fans. Her work across film and television was defined by bold character choices, impeccable timing, and a rare ability to balance absurdity with genuine heart.

O’Hara passed away following a brief illness, according to her management, after being transported from her Brentwood, California home to a Los Angeles hospital early Friday morning. Tributes poured in almost immediately, including a deeply moving message from her on-screen son Macaulay Culkin, who referred to her simply as “mama” and expressed sorrow for all the moments left unsaid. Catherine O’Hara is survived by her husband, production designer Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke. Though she is gone, her legacy endures—in unforgettable characters, timeless performances, and the laughter she gifted to the world for more than five decades.