Veteran Hollywood actress Catherine O’Hara, best known for her roles in Home Alone and the hit television series Schitt’s Creek, has died at the age of 71.
Her talent agency, Creative Artists Agency (CAA), confirmed that O’Hara passed away on Friday at her home in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles. The cause of death was not disclosed.
In a tribute shared on Instagram, CAA described O’Hara as an extraordinary talent and a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. The agency praised her comic brilliance, artistic range, and lasting influence, noting that representing her for more than 30 years was both an honour and a privilege.
The statement traced her career from her early work on the iconic sketch comedy show SCTV to her standout performances in films such as Home Alone and Beetlejuice. It also highlighted her Emmy-winning role as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, a performance that introduced her to a new generation of fans and cemented her legacy in television comedy.
O’Hara became a global household name for portraying the anxious but devoted mother of Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, in the first two Home Alone films—roles that remain among the most memorable in family cinema.
Her filmography also included acclaimed titles such as Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, Beetlejuice, and its sequel, further establishing her as one of comedy’s most distinctive and versatile performers.
Born in Canada, O’Hara began her career in improvisational comedy before enjoying a decades-long career spanning film, television, and stage. She is survived by her family and leaves behind an enduring legacy in comedy and popular culture.
