Legendary actress Catherine O’Hara passed away on January 30 at the age of 71, leaving a profound impact on the entertainment world through her roles in shows and films such as Schitt’s Creek, Home Alone, Beetlejuice, and The Last of Us. The news of her death sparked an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from her co-stars and peers, including a moving homage from Pedro Pascal that celebrated her extraordinary talent and presence.
Pedro Pascal Reflects on O’Hara’s Unique Brilliance
Pedro Pascal expressed deep gratitude for having had the chance to work alongside Catherine O’Hara, describing her as a unique genius and a bright light who touched many lives. His tribute acknowledged the enduring influence she leaves on the world and the personal loss felt by those fortunate enough to know her. Sharing on social media, Pascal wrote,
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. Always ♥️ The one and ONLY #CatherineOHara.
Friends and Co-Stars Share Fond Memories and Admiration
Catherine O’Hara’s longtime collaborator Eugene Levy reflected on their more than fifty years of friendship and creative partnership, beginning with their early days on the Second City stage and continuing through SCTV, various film projects, and the celebrated series Schitt’s Creek. Levy conveyed his sorrow and extended condolences to O’Hara’s family, including her children Bo, Matthew, and Luke, saying,
Words seem inadequate to express the loss I feel today. I had the honor of knowing and working with the great Catherine O’Hara for over fifty years… I cherished our working relationship, but most of all our friendship. And I will miss her. My heart goes out to Bo, Matthew, Luke and the entire O’Hara family.
Dan Levy, who played O’Hara’s son on Schitt’s Creek, emphasized her role as an extended family member long before their characters connected on the show. He praised her warmth and brilliance, sharing,
What a gift to have gotten to dance in the warm glow of Catherine O’Hara’s brilliance for all those years. Having spent over fifty years collaborating with my Dad, Catherine was extended family before she ever played my family. It’s hard to imagine a world without her in it. I will cherish every funny memory I was fortunate enough to make with her.
Amy Sedaris honored O’Hara’s creativity and versatility, expressing how inspirational she was throughout her career—especially during their time on SCTV. Sedaris wrote on Instagram,
Truly heartbroken. Devastating. Catherine O’Hara was such an inspiration to me. I was obsessed with her and SCTV [Second City Television]. She could do anything. So so funny. So so original. Very very sad news. 💫💫 spirit in the sky. #catherineohara Waaaaaaaaaaawh.
Anne Murphy, who portrayed O’Hara’s daughter on Schitt’s Creek, shared heartfelt reflections on the actress’s infectious laughter and joyful presence on set, posting,
Ha-ha-HAAAA?!?! Her laugh was a perpetual Yes, And… It challenged anyone who heard it to join in, and be as delighted as she was. Gosh, were we ever lucky to have her. #goodbyetoagreatactress😎
Other Tributes Highlight O’Hara’s Kindness and Talent
Seth Rogen recalled the joy of working with Catherine O’Hara on the show The Studio, also noting his admiration of her long before their collaboration. Actress Chase Sui Wonders emphasized O’Hara’s radiant kindness and generosity, stating,
You radiated goodness and light. ‘Don’t meet your heroes’ doesn’t apply to you Catherine. You had no business being as kind to me as you were but that’s just how you were with everyone. I’ll never stop pinching myself. ♥️
Rita Wilson highlighted O’Hara’s authenticity and sincerity across her career and personal life, sending condolences to her family:
Catherine O’Hara—a woman who was authentic and truthful in all she did. You saw it in her work, if you knew her you saw it in her life, and you saw it in her family. Bo, Luke and Matthew, our deepest sympathies. May Catherine rest in peace. May her memory be eternal.
Lea Thompson celebrated O’Hara’s compassionate spirit and unique integrity, describing her as a rare treasure whose love for humanity shone through her performances. Thompson wrote,
the most glorious person. Kind, honest, smart, funny, and beautiful beyond words. She carried the spirit. You could feel her love of humanity in her brilliant work. And she had integrity, clarity and wisdom that made her a unique treasure. I know the greats are with her now trying to pick her wonderful brain as to how she could do it all. Here on earth our hearts are a bit broken. We needed you now more than ever. Rest in peace dear friend.
Fashion designer Christian Siriano recalled dressing O’Hara in his signature styles and shared his fond memories:
Oh Catherine dressing you in Siriano stripes was one of my favorite memories I will never forget ever. Rest well your incredible woman. 🖤
Justin Theroux briefly but poignantly marked the loss of their time together on Beetlejuice, posting,
🕊️Oh Catherine. You will be so so missed.
Michael McKean, a frequent collaborator with O’Hara on several films including A Mighty Wind, succinctly captured the heartbreak shared by many:
Only one Catherine O’Hara, and now none. Heartbreaking.
Impact of Catherine O’Hara’s Career and Legacy
Catherine O’Hara’s passing resonates deeply within the entertainment community and among her fans worldwide due to her versatile roles and remarkable contributions to comedy and drama. Beyond her acclaimed performances, O’Hara was celebrated for her warmth, originality, and the genuine affection she inspired in those around her. The wide-ranging tributes from castmates such as Pedro Pascal, Eugene Levy, Dan Levy, and others underline the personal and professional influence she had over decades.
Her work helped define key moments in television and film history, including the beloved cult classic Home Alone, the enduring hit Schitt’s Creek, and multiple iconic sketches on SCTV. The outpouring of respect and admiration highlights the void left by her departure while reminding audiences of the lasting light she brought to her craft and to the lives of those she touched.
As fans and colleagues continue to celebrate Catherine O’Hara’s pioneering spirit, her legacy remains vibrant through her beloved characters and the genuine connections she formed, both on and off screen.
Only one Catherine O'Hara, and now none. Heartbreaking.
— Michael McKean (@MJMcKean) January 30, 2026
