Catherine O’Hara, the cherished star of *Home Alone* and *Schitt’s Creek*, has had her cause of death disclosed following her passing in January at the age of 71. Initially described by her representatives as the result of a “brief illness,” the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office has now confirmed that O’Hara succumbed to a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer cited as the underlying cause.
Medical Findings and Final Arrangements
The news of O’Hara’s cause of death surfaced when TMZ reported that the official death certificate was released on Monday. The document specifies that a blood clot in her heart led to her untimely demise. It also notes that O’Hara has been cremated, with her ashes entrusted to her husband, Bo Welch. While the Medical Examiner’s Office did not provide additional comments, the information has offered some clarity to her grieving fans and family.
A Legacy of Laughter
O’Hara’s illustrious career spanned over five decades, during which she brought to life a myriad of memorable characters, predominantly portraying mothers. Her role as Kate McCallister, mother to Macaulay Culkin’s Kevin in the iconic *Home Alone* films, remains one of her most beloved performances. This role not only solidified her status in Hollywood but also generated the viral “Kevin!” meme that continues to resonate with audiences today.
In addition to her film successes, O’Hara became widely recognised for her portrayal of Moira Rose in the acclaimed TV series *Schitt’s Creek*. Her performance in the show earned her multiple Emmy nominations, including nods for her roles in *The Last of Us* and *The Studio*, marking her ninth and tenth nominations, respectively.
Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
The entertainment community has rallied around O’Hara’s memory, with heartfelt tributes flooding social media. Culkin expressed his sorrow with a poignant post on Instagram, stating, “Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more.” Pedro Pascal, who had the privilege of working alongside O’Hara in *The Last of Us*, shared his gratitude for her influence, saying, “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.”
A Remarkable Journey
Born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto as the sixth of seven children, O’Hara began her professional journey in 1974 with the improv troupe The Second City. This platform not only launched her career but also paved the way for other luminaries like John Candy and Dan Aykroyd. She became a household name with the launch of SCTV, a sketch comedy show that won her an Emmy in 1982 for Outstanding Writing.
Throughout the 1980s, O’Hara appeared in notable films such as Martin Scorsese’s *After Hours* and Tim Burton’s *Beetlejuice*, where she played Delia Deetz. She reprised this role in the much-anticipated 2024 sequel, demonstrating her enduring appeal in the entertainment industry. O’Hara met her husband, production designer Bo Welch, on the set of *Beetlejuice*, and the couple married in 1992. Together, they raised two sons, Matthew and Luke.
Why it Matters
Catherine O’Hara’s passing marks not just the loss of a talented actress but also the end of an era that celebrated her unique ability to blend humour with heartfelt performances. Her legacy will resonate through the laughter and memories she created, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the impact of beloved characters on our lives. As tributes continue to pour in, it becomes evident that O’Hara’s influence transcends generations, solidifying her place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
