On Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, beloved actress and comedy legend Catherine O’Hara sadly passed away at the age of 71 after battling pulmonary embolism and cancer.
O’Hara, who started her career in 1974, had many iconic film and television roles, including Kevin’s mother in “Home Alone,” Delia Deetz in “Beetlejuice,” Moria Rose in “Schitt’s Creek,” Sally in “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and many more. Tributes from many of her past collaborators and co-stars have been pouring in.
Michael Keaton, her “Beetlejuice” co-star, said, “She’s been my pretend wife, my pretend nemesis, and my real-life true friend. This one hurts. Man, am I gonna miss her.”
Tim Burton, a frequent collaborator of hers, posted alongside a behind-the-scenes photo from “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” “Catherine, I love you. This picture shows how much light you gave to all of us. You were a special part of my life and afterlife.”
Macaulay Culkin, who played her character’s son Kevin in “Home Alone,” posted, “Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you, but I had so much more to say. I love you. I’ll see you later.”
She was admired as an idol and icon by many, including myself, and it’s truly sad to see her go. I’d like to say farewell and thank you, Catherine, for all the laughter, smiles and joy you brought to me and countless others over the years. Your legacy and impact on comedy and film will last for many generations to come. There will never be another like you: you truly were one of the greatest.
