Award-winning actress Catherine O’Hara has died at the age of 71, according to official records released in the United States. Her death certificate confirms that she passed away on January 30 at a hospital in Los Angeles, with the immediate cause listed as a pulmonary embolism.
The document also notes that O’Hara had been battling rectal cancer, which was identified as an underlying long-term condition. Records indicate she had been undergoing treatment since March 2025.
News of her passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from colleagues, collaborators, and fans around the world. O’Hara, a beloved Canadian performer, was widely celebrated for her recent work in the Emmy-winning comedy The Studio as well as her appearance in The Last of Us.
Tributes from colleagues and friends
Actor and The Studio creator Seth Rogen described her as an extraordinary presence, calling her “hysterical, kind, intuitive, and generous.” He added that everyone who experienced her work was fortunate to live in the same era as her.
Pedro Pascal, who worked alongside O’Hara on The Last of Us, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, expressing gratitude for having known her and noting that the world felt dimmer without her.
O’Hara achieved major television success during her six-season run on Schitt’s Creek, where her performance earned her an Emmy Award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series. Longtime collaborator Eugene Levy said he was struggling to find words after losing someone he had known and worked with for more than five decades.
Dan Levy, co-creator of Schitt’s Creek and her on-screen son, described O’Hara as family long before they portrayed one on television. He said he would treasure every moment they shared together.
Actor Macaulay Culkin, who played her son in Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, posted a deeply emotional tribute, reflecting on the bond they shared and expressing regret that there was never enough time.
Family and legacy
Catherine O’Hara is survived by her husband Bo Welch, their sons Matthew and Luke, and her six siblings. Her influence on comedy and film spans decades, leaving behind a legacy defined by sharp wit, warmth, and unforgettable performances.
What is a pulmonary embolism?
According to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), a pulmonary embolism is a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by a blood clot blocking a blood vessel in the lungs. Common symptoms can include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain that worsens with breathing, and coughing up blood. Immediate medical treatment is critical.
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