Canada mourns the loss of Catherine O'Hara, a celebrated actress and comedian whose career spanned decades and brought joy to audiences worldwide. O'Hara, best known for her iconic roles in "Schitt's Creek" and "Home Alone," passed away on January 31, 2026, at the age of 71.
Born and raised in Toronto, O'Hara began her career in the 1970s with the Second City comedy troupe, a launching pad for many Canadian comedic talents. Her early work on the CBC sketch comedy show "SCTV" garnered her critical acclaim and established her as a comedic force. She won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing in a Variety or Music Program in 1982 for her work on "SCTV".
O'Hara's film career included memorable performances in Christopher Guest's mockumentaries such as "Waiting for Guffman" and "Best in Show." However, she achieved international recognition for her role as Kate McCallister in the "Home Alone" films. More recently, her portrayal of Moira Rose in the CBC sitcom "Schitt's Creek," co-created by Eugene Levy and his son Dan Levy, earned her a new generation of fans and numerous accolades, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2020. Her work on “Schitt’s Creek” with fellow Canadian Eugene Levy resonated deeply with audiences both in Canada and internationally.
O'Hara's impact on Canadian culture is undeniable. She was a trailblazer for women in comedy and a role model for aspiring Canadian actors. Her talent, wit, and warmth will be remembered fondly by Canadians and fans around the world.
