Catherine O'Hara, a distinguished Canadian comedic actress whose career spanned several decades and included memorable performances in both film and television, passed away at her home in Los Angeles on Friday after a short illness, according to a statement released by her agency, Creative Artists Agency. She was 71. Additional specifics about the circumstances of her passing have not been disclosed.
O'Hara first rose to prominence in the 1970s through her involvement with the Second City troupe in Toronto, an institution renowned for cultivating comedic talent. It was there she connected with Eugene Levy, a relationship that endured professionally and personally, as the two would later star together in the critically acclaimed television series "Schitt's Creek."
The Canadian sketch comedy show "SCTV," an acronym for "Second City Television," featured O'Hara and Levy among its original cast members. This program not only served as a pivotal platform for her career but also introduced audiences to a cadre of comedic figures including Martin Short, John Candy, Andrea Martin, Rick Moranis, and Joe Flaherty, all of whom contributed to the show's iconic status in comedy circles.
"Schitt's Creek," a comedic series conceptualized by Eugene Levy and his son Dan, portrayed a formerly affluent family who must adapt to a life in a modest small town. The show gained widespread acclaim, culminating in a dominant performance at the Emmy Awards during its final sixth season. This role highlighted O'Hara's unique ability to blend humor and dramatic flair through her character, Moira Rose, earning her renewed recognition and attracting a new generation of fans.
In addition to her work on "Schitt's Creek," O'Hara's career experienced a resurgence that saw her take on diverse roles, including a dramatic appearance in HBO's "The Last of Us" and a portrayal of a Hollywood producer in the series "The Studio." Both performances garnered Emmy nominations, underscoring her versatile talent and enduring influence in the entertainment industry.
Among her well-known roles, O'Hara is remembered for her portrayal of the frazzled mother in the popular "Home Alone" films, which further solidified her status in comedic acting. She leaves behind her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke.