Catherine O'Hara, Beloved Actress, Dies at Home

Cause of death revealed after actress' passing last week

Feb. 9, 2026 at 2:39pm

Actress Catherine O'Hara, known for her roles in films like Beetlejuice and the Home Alone series, has died at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, her agency has confirmed. O'Hara, who was born in Boston, had a long and acclaimed career spanning over 100 television and film roles, including her Emmy and Golden Globe-winning performance in the comedy series Schitt's Creek.

Why it matters

O'Hara was a beloved and respected figure in the entertainment industry, with a career that spanned decades and included many iconic and memorable roles. Her passing is a significant loss for the acting community and her many fans around the world.

The details

Catherine O'Hara died at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, according to her agency. The actress rose to fame in 1988 with her role in the film Beetlejuice, and went on to star as Kevin's mother in the Home Alone movies. She was also known for her Emmy and Golden Globe-winning performance in the comedy series Schitt's Creek, where she starred alongside her longtime collaborator Eugene Levy.

  • Catherine O'Hara died on February 2, 2026.
  • The cause of her death was revealed on February 9, 2026.

The players

Catherine O'Hara

An acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like Beetlejuice and the Home Alone series, as well as her Emmy and Golden Globe-winning performance in the comedy series Schitt's Creek.

Eugene Levy

O'Hara's longtime collaborator, with whom she starred in the comedy series Schitt's Creek.

Macaulay Culkin

The actor who played Kevin in the Home Alone films, in which O'Hara starred as his mother.

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What they’re saying

“Mama, I thought we had time, I wanted more, I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you, but I also I had so much more to say, I love you, I will see you later.”

— Macaulay Culkin (Social media)

The takeaway

Catherine O'Hara's passing is a significant loss for the entertainment industry, as she was a beloved and respected actress who left an indelible mark on the roles she portrayed over her long and acclaimed career. Her fans and colleagues will undoubtedly remember her fondly and continue to celebrate her many contributions to film and television.