Home Alone star Catherine O’Hara dies aged 71

Catherine O’Hara, the celebrated Canadian actress and comedy legend, has died at the age of 71, her publicist confirmed on Friday. She passed away at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness.

O’Hara’s career spanned more than four decades, during which she became a defining figure in comedy. She first gained prominence on the sketch series SCTV, where she not only starred but also contributed as a writer, sharing a Primetime Emmy Award for her work. She went on to star in an array of iconic films and television shows.

She is best known to global audiences as Kate McCallister in the Home Alone series, a role that cemented her place in pop culture history. Her other memorable film roles include Beetlejuice, The Nightmare Before Christmas, After Hours, Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, and Waiting for Guffman. On television, she earned critical acclaim and multiple awards for her Emmy-winning performance in Schitt’s Creek, which remains one of her most celebrated roles.

Recently, O’Hara had been nominated for Best Supporting Actress at the Golden Globes for her role in the Apple+ series The Studio, though she did not attend the ceremony in January.

Tributes quickly poured in from fans and fellow performers alike. One fan wrote on social media: “RIP Catherine O’Hara. I know John Candy greeted her with open arms.” Another said: “She was an absolute genius for the entirety of her career. She will be terribly missed.” Many noted her iconic role in Home Alone, remembering her portrayal of a devoted mother racing against time to reunite with her son.

O’Hara’s versatility and impeccable comedic timing earned her a reputation as one of the most talented performers of her generation. From sketch comedy beginnings to major film and television roles, her work continues to influence and inspire comedians and actors around the world.

Her legacy is defined not only by laughter but by the warmth and humanity she brought to her characters, ensuring that audiences will continue to celebrate her performances for years to come.

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