egendary actress Catherine O’Hara has died from a pulmonary embolism, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed Monday. The official death certificate lists a blood clot in the lungs as the immediate cause, with rectal cancer cited as the underlying condition.
According to the certificate, O’Hara, 71, was cremated, and her remains were entrusted to her husband, Robert “Bo” Welch. TMZ first reported her passing at the end of January, with sources confirming that she had been rushed to the hospital in critical condition after experiencing severe breathing difficulties.
Over a career spanning decades, O’Hara became a household name, delivering unforgettable performances across film and television. She was beloved for her roles in Schitt’s Creek, Beetlejuice, and, perhaps most famously, as Kevin McCallister’s mother in the first two Home Alone films. Her work remained acclaimed late into her career, earning her a recent Emmy nomination for her performance alongside Seth Rogen in Apple TV+’s The Studio.
Throughout her illustrious career, O’Hara’s talent was recognized with numerous accolades, including two Emmys, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Golden Globe. Her unique blend of comedic timing and dramatic depth left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
Catherine O’Hara’s passing leaves a significant void in the entertainment industry, but her legacy endures through the characters and performances that continue to resonate with fans old and new.
She was 71.
Rest in peace, Catherine O’Hara.
