Catherine O’Hara has died at the age of 71. Her death was confirmed on January 30. She passed away after a brief illness. Emergency services were called to her home early that morning after reports of breathing difficulties. She was taken to hospital in serious condition but did not recover. No further medical details have been made public.
Catherine O’Hara was best known for her role as Kevin’s mother in Home Alone, which made her a familiar face to audiences worldwide. Years later, she reached a new generation of viewers as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, a role that became one of the most celebrated of her career.
Her final public appearance was in September 2025 at the Primetime Emmy Awards in Los Angeles, where she attended with her husband, Bo Welch. At the time, some fans commented on her appearance, but no health concerns were confirmed publicly.
Born in Toronto, O’Hara built a career that spanned decades while keeping her private life largely out of the spotlight. She married production designer Bo Welch in 1992, and they had two sons. She often said that family came first when choosing her work.
Catherine O’Hara is remembered for the joy, warmth, and originality she brought to film and television. Her family has announced that a private celebration of her life will be held.