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Pulmonary Embolism Caused Catherine O'Hara's Death at 71
The actress passed away due to a blood clot in her lungs, with underlying rectal cancer as the cause
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Actress Catherine O'Hara passed away at the age of 71 due to a pulmonary embolism, a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries caused by a blood clot. The underlying cause was rectal cancer, which can increase the risk of blood clots. Pulmonary embolisms can cause sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heart rate, and other dangerous symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
Why it matters
O'Hara's death highlights the serious health risks associated with pulmonary embolisms and rectal cancer. Understanding the warning signs and importance of regular cancer screenings can help save lives, as pulmonary embolisms are a potentially fatal complication of certain types of cancer.
The details
According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's Office, O'Hara's cause of death was a pulmonary embolism, with her underlying battle with rectal cancer as the primary cause. Pulmonary embolisms occur when a blood clot, often originating in the legs, breaks loose and travels to the lungs, blocking a pulmonary artery. Rectal cancer can increase the risk of developing blood clots that can lead to a pulmonary embolism.
- Catherine O'Hara passed away on February 9, 2026.
The players
Catherine O'Hara
A 71-year-old actress known for her roles in films like Home Alone and Schitt's Creek.
Dr. Ning Jin
A medical oncologist with The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute.
What they’re saying
“Pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries. Sometimes, blood clots can actually form directly in the pulmonary arteries rather than traveling there from elsewhere.”
— Dr. Ning Jin, Medical Oncologist
“Rectal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the rectum — the last several inches of the large intestine. While it is similar to colon cancer, its treatment often differs due to its location deep within the pelvis.”
— Dr. Ning Jin, Medical Oncologist
What’s next
Regular cancer screenings, especially colonoscopies starting at age 45, are recommended to detect and prevent rectal cancer, which can lead to potentially fatal complications like pulmonary embolisms.
The takeaway
Catherine O'Hara's tragic passing at 71 due to a pulmonary embolism stemming from her rectal cancer underscores the importance of understanding the warning signs of this condition and the need for proactive cancer screening. Early detection and treatment of rectal cancer can help prevent such life-threatening complications.
