Reports say Catherine O’Hara — best known for *Schitt’s Creek*, *Home Alone*, and *Best in Show* — “**has died at the age of 71, according to TMZ**.” The outlet cited two sources with direct knowledge, noting that “**her cause of death has not been publicly confirmed**.” No official statement has been released.
O’Hara became a household name as Kate McCallister, the frantic and determined mother in the first two *Home Alone* films. The role helped anchor the franchise emotionally and remains one of her most recognizable performances. Years later, she reached a new generation of fans as Moira Rose on *Schitt’s Creek*, appearing in 80 episodes and helping turn the series into a cultural phenomenon.
Her career spanned decades and included collaborations with Christopher Guest in comedies such as *Best in Show* and *A Mighty Wind*. She also appeared in *Beetlejuice* and later returned to the franchise in *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice*. Even in later years, she “**continued taking on new projects, maintaining an active presence in film and television**.”
Born and raised in Toronto, O’Hara met her husband, production designer Bo Welch, while working on *Beetlejuice*. They married in 1992 and shared two sons.
Her final public appearance was on September 14, 2025, at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards. Fans and colleagues remember her for “**the joy, originality, and emotional depth she brought to the screen**,” and for leaving “**a lasting imprint on modern comedy**.”
