Veteran film and television performer Catherine O’Hara has passed away at 71 after what has been described as a “short illness,” Us Weekly has confirmed.
According to TMZ, which initially broke the story on Friday, January 30, the exact circumstances surrounding her death have not yet been disclosed. A representative for the Los Angeles Fire Department reported to Us that emergency crews were dispatched to O’Hara’s residence in Brentwood at 4:48 a.m. for a medical emergency. She was taken to the hospital in “serious condition.”
News of her passing follows a particularly active year for O’Hara in 2025, during which she made several notable screen appearances. She guest-starred as Gail in The Last of Us and portrayed Patty Leigh in Seth Rogen’s acclaimed series The Studio, where her character served as a guiding figure for Rogen’s role, Matt Remick.
Despite The Studio’s impressive presence during the current awards season, O’Hara did not join her colleagues at the Critics Choice Awards or the Golden Globe Awards earlier this month.
Her last public appearance was at an Emmy after-party in September 2025. She had been nominated for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her work in The Studio, though the award ultimately went to Hannah Einbinder for Hacks.
Following her nomination, O’Hara shared her appreciation: “I’m delighted for everyone involved in the show and grateful to be among them,” she said. “And I’m thrilled that Ron Howard and Martin Scorsese are finally getting the praise they deserve because of The Studio!”
Over the course of nearly five decades, O’Hara solidified her place as one of Hollywood’s defining comedic talents. She remains best known for her role as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek and for her iconic performances in the Home Alone films.
In a March 2025 conversation with Variety, she reflected on being called a comedy legend: “I don’t think of myself that way, but it’s lovely that people see me like that,” she said, explaining that humor was always part of her nature. “It’s the best kind of armor. If you grow up with it, you’re blessed. Life has darkness and light — humor helps you find the light.”
O’Hara leaves behind her husband, Bo Welch, whom she married in 1992, as well as their two sons: Matthew (born 1994) and Luke (born 1997). According to a statement from Creative Artists Agency, the family will hold a private memorial service.