Catherine O’Hara, the endlessly brilliant comedic force behind some of film and television’s most unforgettable characters — has died at the age of 71.
The Canadian actress’s manager confirmed the news to PEOPLE on Friday, Jan. 30. No further details were shared at the time in regards to her cause of death.
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I first saw Catherine O’Hara in Home Alone. Like most people, I grew up watching her without really realizing how much of a presence she had. She was funny, frantic, emotional — and completely believable. Even back then, she stood out.
Then came Beetlejuice. A totally different energy, but the same thing happened: you couldn’t take your eyes off her. She had this way of going all in without ever trying too hard. It just worked.
Over the years, whether it was her Christopher Guest films or Schitt’s Creek, Catherine O’Hara became one of those rare performers who felt timeless. She could be absurd, dramatic, subtle, or completely unhinged — sometimes all in the same scene — and it never felt forced.
Most recently, seeing her back in The Studio reminded me why she’s lasted as long as she has. There’s a confidence there now. Not loud, not flashy — just someone who knows exactly who they are and what they bring to the table.
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For me, she’s one of those actors who’s always been part of the background of my life in the best way. You grow up watching her, and at some point you realize how much of your love for movies and TV is tied to performances like hers.
She didn’t just play characters people remember, she is part of why so many of us fell in love with film and television in the first place.
She will be missed by many.
