Jenna Ortega expressed a moving tribute to her Beetlejuice co-star Catherine O’Hara, following the actress’s death last Friday. Sharing on Instagram, Ortega celebrated O’Hara’s legacy and their time together, highlighting the impact the beloved actress had on her life and career.
Ortega’s Personal Reflection on Working with Catherine O’Hara
At 23 years old, Jenna Ortega shared a series of photos on Instagram over the weekend, including a black-and-white image featuring herself, O’Hara, and fellow co-star Winona Ryder. In her tribute, Ortega described O’Hara as
“one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever had the honor of getting to work with and know.”
She went on to express how deeply she values their shared experiences and the lessons O’Hara imparted.
“Catherine is one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever had the honor of getting to work with and know,”
Jenna Ortega, Actress
“A giant and inspiration in many ways,”
Jenna Ortega, Actress
“One of the greats. Thank you so much for it all.”
Jenna Ortega, Actress
The Continuation of a Timeless Franchise with New and Returning Cast
Ortega’s tribute is connected to her role in the 2024 sequel of Tim Burton’s cult classic Beetlejuice, originally released in 1988. This sequel brought back original cast members such as Winona Ryder, Michael Keaton, and of course, Catherine O’Hara, alongside new performers including Ortega, Justin Theroux, and Willem Dafoe. The combination of returning stars and fresh faces was a pivotal point in reviving the beloved story for a new generation.
Michael Keaton’s Touching Homage to O’Hara
Michael Keaton, who reprised his role in the new film, also publicly mourned the loss of his longtime friend and collaborator. He posted on Instagram, sharing memories from their early days before the original movie and emphasizing the deep personal bond they shared over three decades.
“We go back before the first ‘Beetlejuice,’”
Michael Keaton, Actor
“She’s been my pretend wife, my pretend nemesis and my real life, true friend. This one hurts. Man am I gonna miss her,”
Michael Keaton, Actor
Keaton additionally expressed his sympathies for O’Hara’s husband, Bo Welch, noting he was keeping him in his thoughts during this difficult time.
Statements of Admiration from Tim Burton and Alec Baldwin
Director Tim Burton also honored O’Hara’s memory with a heartfelt Instagram message describing her as a
“special part of my life and after life,”
underscoring her importance both personally and professionally.
“Catherine, I love you. …. You were a special part of my life and after life.”
Tim Burton, Director
Alec Baldwin, who originally played Adam Maitland in Beetlejuice, praised O’Hara’s unique comedic talent and extended condolences to Welch and O’Hara’s family.
“[She was] one of the greatest comic talents in the movie business,”
Alec Baldwin, Actor
“She had a quality that was all her own and my sympathy goes out to Bo and their family,”
Alec Baldwin, Actor
The Circumstances and Legacy of Catherine O’Hara’s Passing
Catherine O’Hara, a 10-time Emmy nominee, passed away at age 71 after a brief illness. The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed that she was rushed to a hospital in serious condition, though the cause of her death remains undisclosed.
O’Hara’s passing has evoked an outpouring of tributes from her co-stars, friends, and fans, reflecting the deep affection and respect she earned throughout her distinguished career. The actress’s work continues to inspire both industry professionals and audiences alike.
Ongoing Impact and Remembrances in the Entertainment Community
The loss of Catherine O’Hara resonates across Hollywood, emphasizing the void left by her passing. Tributes from prominent figures like Ortega, Keaton, Baldwin, and Burton highlight the emotional weight carried by those who knew her personally and professionally. As the entertainment world reflects on her remarkable journey, her influence in comedy and film remains firmly imprinted.
Jenna Ortega’s tribute in particular serves as both a personal and public acknowledgment of O’Hara’s enduring legacy, reminding fans of the connection formed between the actresses during a significant cinematic project. The acclaim surrounding the Beetlejuice sequel, coupled with these heartfelt remembrances, ensures that O’Hara’s memory continues to inspire future generations.
