Comedic Actress Catherine O'Hara Dies at 71

Death certificate reveals pulmonary embolism and rectal cancer as causes

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Catherine O'Hara, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in "Schitt's Creek," "Home Alone," and "Beetlejuice," died on January 30 at the age of 71. According to her death certificate, the cause of death was a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer listed as an underlying cause.

Why it matters

O'Hara was a beloved and respected figure in the entertainment industry, with a career spanning over five decades. Her passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans, highlighting the impact she had on the industry and pop culture.

The details

The death certificate, released on Monday, stated that O'Hara died at Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, California. No other underlying causes were listed. At the time of her death, her agency, Creative Artists Agency, said she had been briefly ill.

  • Catherine O'Hara died on January 30, 2026 at the age of 71.
  • Her death certificate was released on February 9, 2026.

The players

Catherine O'Hara

A renowned film and television actress best known for her roles in "Schitt's Creek," "Home Alone," and "Beetlejuice." She won an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild Award for her work.

Macaulay Culkin

The actor who played Kevin, the youngest child in the "Home Alone" films, in which O'Hara starred as the stressed-out matriarch.

Martin Short

A fellow comedian and actor who paid tribute to O'Hara, calling her "the greatest, most brilliant, kindest, sweetest angel that any of us worked with."

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What they’re saying

“Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more.”

— Macaulay Culkin (Social media)

“the greatest, most brilliant, kindest, sweetest angel that any of us worked with.”

— Martin Short, Comedian and actor

The takeaway

Catherine O'Hara's passing marks the end of an era, as the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a true comedic icon who left an indelible mark on pop culture through her memorable and acclaimed performances.