Actor Justin Theroux paid an emotional tribute to his late Beetlejuice Beetlejuice co-star Catherine O’Hara, sharing a heartfelt message on Instagram. Theroux’s post celebrated O’Hara’s impact, accompanied by a poignant image of her empty chair on set, with a dog sitting quietly beside it.
Theroux and O’Hara collaborated in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, a much-anticipated sequel to Tim Burton’s 1988 cult classic. O’Hara reprised her iconic role as Delia Deetz, bringing her signature energy and comedic flair, while Theroux’s supporting role highlighted their natural chemistry both during filming and promotional appearances.
Fans and Colleagues Respond to the Tribute
The tribute quickly sparked an outpouring of reactions from fans and fellow actors, who joined in remembering O’Hara’s warmth and remarkable career. Many took to social media to share their grief and appreciation for her legacy.
This was a shocker. Lovely soul,
one fan commented.
Another wrote,
My heart is absolutely shattered!!!!! She was perfect in every single way.
Numerous others reflected on the breadth of her talent and the memorable characters she brought to life throughout her decades-long career.
Tracing Catherine O’Hara’s Storied Career
Catherine O’Hara’s career spanned over fifty years, beginning in the 1970s with the comedy show Second City Television (SCTV), where her sharp wit and versatile performances quickly earned acclaim. Her early work set the foundation for a prolific presence in both comedy and film.
Her breakthrough roles included the original Beetlejuice and later as Kate McCallister, the mother of Kevin in the beloved Home Alone series—both of which have remained cultural touchstones. Years later, O’Hara gained widespread acclaim for her portrayal of Moira Rose on the TV series Schitt’s Creek, earning several Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Schitt’s Creek marked a pinnacle in her career, demonstrating her range from absurd comedy to heartfelt drama and solidifying her status as a uniquely talented television performer. In addition, O’Hara’s distinctive voice work in animated films like The Nightmare Before Christmas and Frankenweenie extended her influence to multiple generations of fans.
More recently, she appeared in acclaimed shows such as The Last of Us and The Studio, the latter of which earned her a Golden Globe nomination earlier this year. Though she was unable to attend the awards ceremony, this nomination underscored her continued relevance and remarkable skill in an evolving industry.
Justin Theroux’s Tribute Highlights O’Hara’s Enduring Impact
Theroux’s simple yet powerful tribute echoed a widespread sentiment across social media: Catherine O’Hara was a cherished colleague and extraordinary artist whose generosity, humor, and spirit left an unforgettable impression on all who knew her. His remembrance serves as a testament to her lasting influence in entertainment and the deep connections she fostered throughout her career.
