Legendary actress Catherine O’Hara passed away on January 30 at the age of 71, leaving a profound impact on the entertainment industry. Known for her memorable performances in shows like Schitt’s Creek and films such as Home Alone and Beetlejuice, O’Hara’s death has sparked heartfelt tributes from fellow actors and friends, including Pedro Pascal, who honored her significant influence and enduring legacy.
Pedro Pascal Honors Catherine O’Hara’s Brilliance
Pedro Pascal led the calls to remember Catherine O’Hara’s exceptional talent and presence, expressing deep gratitude for having known her. In a moving Instagram tribute, he described her as a singular light in the world and reaffirmed that her impact will remain forever.
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 one and ONLY #CatherineOHara.
– Pedro Pascal
Macaulay Culkin Reflects on a Maternal Bond Beyond the Screen
Macaulay Culkin, who starred as O’Hara’s son in Home Alone, shared a deeply personal reflection on their relationship. He revealed how O’Hara was more than just a co-star, describing her as a mother figure off-camera and expressing regret over lost time to express his feelings.
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.
– Macaulay Culkin
Esteemed Peers Recall Decades of Collaboration and Friendship
Eugene Levy, O’Hara’s long-time collaborator and friend, reflected on their more than 50 years working together across stage, television, and film. He emphasized the depth of their friendship alongside their professional partnership and extended condolences to O’Hara’s family.
Words seem inadequate to express the loss I feel today. I had the honor of knowing and working with the great Catherine O’Hara for over fifty years. From our beginnings on the Second City stage, to SCTV, to the movies we did with Chris Guest, to our six glorious years on Schitt’s Creek, I cherished our working relationship, but most of all our friendship. And I will miss her. My heart goes out to Bo, Matthew, Luke and the entire O’Hara family.
– Eugene Levy
Dan Levy, who portrayed O’Hara’s son on Schitt’s Creek, spoke about her integral role in his family’s life well before their on-screen collaboration. He treasured the memories of their time together and the warmth of her spirit.
What a gift to have gotten to dance in the warm glow of Catherine O’Hara’s brilliance for all those years, Having spent over fifty years collaborating with my Dad, Catherine was extended family before she ever played my family. It’s hard to imagine a world without her in it. I will cherish every funny memory I was fortunate enough to make with her.
– Dan Levy
Co-Stars Remember O’Hara’s Infectious Spirit and Laughter
Anne Murphy, who played O’Hara’s daughter on Schitt’s Creek, shared heartfelt memories of O’Hara’s laughter and generosity on set. She described the actress’s laugh as a challenge and invitation to embrace joy and creativity.
Ha-ha-HAAAA?!?! Her laugh was a perpetual Yes, And… It challenged anyone who heard it to join in, and be as delighted as she was. Gosh, were we ever lucky to have her. #goodbyetoagreatactress😎
– Anne Murphy
Seth Rogen reflected on his admiration for O’Hara, recalling their collaboration on The Studio and highlighting her kindness and talent.
Actress Chase Sui Wonders also praised O’Hara’s warmth and generosity, calling her kindness unmatched and recalling how the actress treated everyone with extraordinary care.
You radiated goodness and light. ‘Don’t meet your heroes’ doesn’t apply to you Catherine. You had no business being as kind to me as you were but that’s just how you were with everyone. I’ll never stop pinching myself. ♥️
– Chase Sui Wonders
Tributes Highlight O’Hara’s Authenticity and Lasting Influence
Rita Wilson paid homage to O’Hara’s authenticity, describing her truthfulness both in her work and personal life, and extended her sympathies to the actress’s family.
Catherine O’Hara—a woman who was authentic and truthful in all she did, You saw it in her work, if you knew her you saw it in her life, and you saw it in her family. Bo, Luke and Matthew, our deepest sympathies. May Catherine rest in peace. May her memory be eternal.
– Rita Wilson
Lea Thompson called O’Hara a unique treasure, someone whose kindness, intelligence, humor, and integrity shaped her extraordinary legacy. Thompson imagined the great artists who have passed before welcoming O’Hara to continue inspiring them.
the most glorious person. Kind, honest, smart, funny, and beautiful beyond words. She carried the spirit. You could feel her love of humanity in her brilliant work. And she had integrity, clarity and wisdom that made her a unique treasure. I know the greats are with her now trying to pick her wonderful brain as to how she could do it all. Here on earth or hearts are a bit broken. We needed you now more than ever. Rest in peace dear friend.
– Lea Thompson
Fashion Designer Christian Siriano Remembers O’Hara’s Style and Grace
Christian Siriano recalled fondly the moments he spent dressing Catherine O’Hara in his signature designs, highlighting the joy and connection they shared through fashion.
Oh Catherine dressing you in Siriano stripes was one of my favorite memories I will never forget ever, Rest well your incredible woman. 🖤
– Christian Siriano
Other Prominent Actors Share Their Respect and Mourning
Justin Theroux, known for his role in Beetlejuice alongside O’Hara, expressed his sorrow over her passing and the void it leaves in the acting world.
🕊️Oh Catherine. You will be so so missed.
– Justin Theroux
Michael McKean, who had frequently worked with O’Hara across various projects, captured the heartbreak of losing such an irreplaceable artist.
Only one Catherine O’Hara, and now none. Heartbreaking.
– Michael McKean
Legacy and Impact on Entertainment
Catherine O’Hara’s death marks the loss of a uniquely gifted and beloved performer whose influence spanned decades and genres. From her early days on the Second City stage to her iconic roles in television and film, she shaped the careers and lives of many. The widespread tributes, led by Pedro Pascal and fellow stars like Dan Levy, Eugene Levy, and Macaulay Culkin, underscore the profound affection and respect she commanded. Her legacy continues through the work she left behind and the memories shared by those who had the privilege to know and work with her.
As the entertainment community mourns, O’Hara’s contributions to acting, comedy, and storytelling remain a guiding light for future generations of artists. Her unparalleled spirit, humor, and humanity ensure that she will be remembered not only as a performer but as a treasured friend and inspiration.
Only one Catherine O'Hara, and now none. Heartbreaking.
— Michael McKean (@MJMcKean) January 30, 2026
