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Catherine OHara Comedy Legend passed away at her Los Angeles home on Friday. Her agency, Creative Artists Agency, confirmed she died after a brief illness. She was 71 years old.
A Humble Start in Toronto
O’Hara was born in Toronto in 1954. She grew up in a large family with six siblings. After high school, she worked as a waitress at the Second City Theater. Director Joe Flaherty initially told her to keep her day job. However, she joined the comedy troupe in 1974. She soon became a star on Second City Television. O’Hara earned fame for her brilliant celebrity impressions. She also created many beloved original characters during this time. “Stay connected with PhoenixQ and never miss a key moment.”
Silver Screen Success
O’Hara made her film debut in 1980’s Double Negative. This project paired her with future co-star Eugene Levy. She later took roles in Martin Scorsese’s After Hours and 1986’s Heartburn. In 1988, she played Delia Deetz in the hit movie Beetlejuice. She reprised this iconic role in the 2024 sequel.
Furthermore, O’Hara played the forgetful mother in the Home Alone franchise. These films remain some of the most beloved holiday classics. She also hosted Saturday Night Live twice in the early nineties. Eventually, she chose to return to her roots at Second City Television.
Schitt’s Creek and National Honors
In 2015, she teamed up with Eugene and Dan Levy for Schitt’s Creek. Her role as Moira Rose brought her a new generation of fans. The show eventually became a global sensation on Netflix. Consequently, she won an Emmy Award for her performance in 2020.
In 2017, she received the Order of Canada for her contributions. Officials called her a cultural trailblazer for women in comedy. She inspired countless artists throughout her five-decade career. Catherine OHara Comedy Legend truly paved the way for modern humor.
A World in Mourning
Tributes are pouring in from around the globe. Prime Minister Mark Carney called her a legend of Canadian comedy. Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau described her as a beloved icon. Macaulay Culkin shared a moving tribute to his onscreen mother on Instagram. Pedro Pascal also expressed his gratitude for her genius. The world has lost a bright light and a brilliant comedic mind.
