Actress Catherine O’Hara, the Emmy-winning comic and dramatic star beloved for her iconic roles in television and film, has died at age 71 following a brief illness, her representatives confirmed on January 30, 2026. The announcement, reported by major news outlets including Reuters, sent shockwaves through the entertainment world and around the globe.
O’Hara’s passing marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned more than five decades, touching audiences with her warmth, wit, eccentricity, and immense range. From her early days in sketch comedy to her later dramatic turns, she brought a distinct blend of depth and delight to every performance.
Born March 4, 1954, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Catherine Anne O’Hara first gained attention as a standout performer and writer on the influential comedy series SCTV. There, she developed a reputation for inventiveness, energy, and the ability to disappear into wildly different characters. Many of her early sketches showcased her fearless approach to comedy — with physical humor, sharp timing, and unforgettable personas that hinted at the long career to come.
Her breakout film roles included the eccentric Delia Deetz in Tim Burton’s cult classic Beetlejuice and the devoted — if frenzied — mother Kate McCallister in the enduring holiday hit Home Alone and its sequel. These roles cemented her place in pop culture history and endeared her to multiple generations of fans.
