Pedro Pascal and Melanie Lynskey, cast members of The Last of Us, have publicly mourned the passing of their colleague Catherine O’Hara, who died on Friday at age 71. The actress had appeared in three episodes of the show’s second season in 2025, portraying Gail Lynden, and her death has deeply affected her co-stars and fans alike.
Pedro Pascal Shares a Heartfelt Message
Following the news of O’Hara’s death, Pedro Pascal posted a touching photo on Instagram with her, expressing his profound admiration and sorrow. He wrote,
“Oh, genius to be near you,”
and added,
“Eternally grateful. There is less light in my world, this lucky world that had you, will keep you, always. Always. The one and ONLY #CatherineOHara.”
His words highlight the immense respect and affection he felt for O’Hara.
Melanie Lynskey Reflects on O’Hara’s Impact and Legacy
Melanie Lynskey also paid tribute through a detailed reflection on how O’Hara influenced her personally and professionally. She stated,
“So grateful I got to tell her what she meant to me- how she inspired me, shaped my sense of humour and understanding of the work we do, that she was the pinnacle of greatness to me.”
Lynskey emphasized O’Hara’s humility and kindness, noting,
“I’m sure every actor she met told her similar things. She did not behave as though she’d heard it a million times, she listened and accepted it with grace and wit and tremendous kindness.”
Lynskey further expressed gratitude to filmmaker Jason Reitman for the opportunity to work alongside O’Hara at the Film Independent LACMA reading.
“I got to work with my hero and witness her genius first hand,”
Lynskey recalled. She described O’Hara’s presence on set as radiant and unforgettable, saying,
“I saw her be nothing short of wonderful to every single person she encountered, from the director to the PAs. When people say someone ‘lit up a room’, this is what they mean. She was radiant; it was kind of otherworldly.”
Lynskey concluded,
“Her talent was singular. There’s been nobody like her before and there won’t be again. What a genius. What a beautiful person. My heart is with her family and dear friends who adored her.”
Details Surrounding Catherine O’Hara’s Passing
TMZ was the first outlet to report O’Hara’s death. According to PEOPLE, she was admitted to the hospital earlier Friday and was reportedly in serious condition before passing away. While the exact cause has not been officially confirmed, sources note that she succumbed following a brief illness, as stated by her representative.
The Lasting Influence of a Singular Talent
Catherine O’Hara’s contributions to The Last of Us and her broader career have left a profound mark on colleagues like Pedro Pascal and Melanie Lynskey. Their reflections underscore not only her exceptional talent but also her generosity and warmth. As the entertainment world continues to honor her memory, her impact will remain a guiding light to those who knew her and admired her work. Fans and friends alike await further tributes and celebrations of her life in the coming days.
