Catherine O’Hara, renowned for her sharp comedic talent and memorable performances in productions such as Home Alone, Schitt’s Creek, and Beetlejuice, passed away at the age of 71 in Los Angeles following a short illness. The news of her death has triggered widespread expressions of sorrow and admiration from actors and collaborators who knew her personally and professionally throughout her career.
Macaulay Culkin, known for portraying her son in the first two Home Alone films, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, expressing his deep sense of loss. "Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much more to say. I love you. I’ll see you later," he wrote, underscoring the personal bond they shared on and off screen.
Esteemed actress Meryl Streep released a statement honoring O’Hara’s compassionate insight through her portrayals of eccentric characters. Streep highlighted the profound influence O’Hara had by saying, "Catherine O’Hara brought love and light to our world, through whipsmart compassion for the collection of eccentrics she portrayed...such a loss for her family and friends, and the audience she graced as friends.” Their professional connection included co-starring roles in the film Heartburn.
Michael Keaton, recalling their lengthy friendship that predates their work on Beetlejuice, reflected on their close relationship and varied roles together. On Instagram, he wrote, "She’s been my pretend wife, my pretend nemesis and my real life, true friend. This one hurts. Man am I gonna miss her." His tribute conveys the personal and professional significance O’Hara held in his life.
Pedro Pascal, who collaborated with O’Hara on the second season of the television series The Last of Us, commemorated her genius and the lasting impression she made in his life and the wider world. In his Instagram message, he stated, "Oh, genius to be near you. Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world, this lucky world that had you, will keep you, always. Always." The sentiment emphasizes not only professional admiration but also a profound personal loss.
Comedian and actor Kevin Nealon acknowledged O’Hara’s transformative impact on comedy and humanity, highlighting her ability to create enduring characters that continue to resonate. On social media, he remarked, "Catherine O’Hara changed how so many of us understand comedy and humanity. From the chaos and heart of Home Alone to the unforgettable precision of Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, she created characters we’ll rewatch again and again." This characterization encapsulates her legacy in the entertainment industry.
Craig Mazin, showrunner of The Last of Us, expressed the emotional difficulty of O’Hara’s passing and offered condolences to her family. He acknowledged her as a "legend," praising her brilliance, kindness, and beauty as a person and artist. Mazin’s statement also encouraged those mourning to remember O’Hara with laughter, noting the pain of losing such a loved figure but urging to honor her in the way she might have preferred.
Christopher Guest, a frequent collaborator who worked with O’Hara on four films, described his devastation at losing one of the great comedic talents of their era and extended his sympathies to her family. Similarly, director and actor Sarah Polley reflected on O’Hara’s unique combination of kindness, class, and humor, asserting there will never be another like her.
Ron Howard, who had the opportunity to direct, produce, and act alongside O’Hara, conveyed his sorrow and admiration in an Instagram post, remarking on her ever-growing brilliance with time. He also sent his heartfelt condolences to her immediate family.
Actor Ike Barinholtz, who shared screen time with O’Hara in The Studio, expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to have worked and befriended her, highlighting the sadness of her passing and appreciation for her companionship.
Finally, Rita Wilson honored O’Hara’s authenticity and truthfulness in both her life and work. She extended deepest sympathies to O’Hara’s family, wishing for peace and eternal remembrance of the beloved actress.
Together, these tributes reveal the multifaceted influence Catherine O’Hara had as an actress, friend, and human being. Her death represents a significant loss for her family, fans, and the global entertainment community who celebrated her distinctive contributions to comedy and storytelling throughout her life.