The entertainment world is mourning the passing of the remarkable actress Catherine O'Hara, who departed on January 30th at the age of 71 after a brief illness. Her colleagues from the beloved series "Schitt's Creek" have shared touching tributes, reflecting on her profound impact as both an artist and an individual. O'Hara's portrayal of the eccentric matriarch Moira Rose left an indelible mark on television, earning her numerous accolades and the admiration of fans and peers alike. Her unique blend of humor, warmth, and unparalleled talent will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing or watching her.
Catherine O'Hara's role as Moira Rose in the Canadian sitcom "Schitt's Creek," which ran from 2015 to 2020, was a career-defining performance. She starred alongside Eugene Levy, Dan Levy, and Annie Murphy, who played the Rose family members. The series depicted the formerly affluent family's struggles after losing their fortune and relocating to the small, titular town they once bought as a joke. Moira's elaborate vocabulary, flamboyant fashion sense, and dramatic flair became instant fan favorites, cementing O'Hara's status as a comedic icon.
Dan Levy, who co-created and starred in "Schitt's Creek" as David Rose, shared a moving message on social media. He spoke of the immense privilege of working alongside O'Hara, describing her as an "extended family" member long before she joined the show, owing to her extensive collaboration with his father, Eugene Levy. He emphasized the difficulty of envisioning a world without her vibrant presence and vowed to cherish every humorous memory they created together. His heartfelt condolences extended to O'Hara's family, including her husband Bo, and sons Matthew and Luke.
Jennifer Robertson, who played Jocelyn Schitt on the show, conveyed her deep sorrow to USA Today, calling the experience of being in O'Hara's presence a "beautiful, magical gift." She highlighted O'Hara's humble nature despite her superstar status, noting that O'Hara never fully grasped the extent of the adoration she received. Robertson recognized O'Hara's passing as a significant loss for everyone who knew and loved her, sending her deepest sympathies to O'Hara's family.
Chris Elliott, known for his role as Roland Schitt, also shared his sentiments with USA Today. He described working with O'Hara and Eugene Levy as a dream come true, made even more special by O'Hara's warm, generous, and down-to-earth personality. Elliott fondly recalled the laughter they shared both on and off-screen, as well as a memorable shopping trip. These reflections underscore the genuine affection and respect O'Hara garnered from her co-stars.
Beyond "Schitt's Creek," Catherine O'Hara had an illustrious career spanning decades. She famously portrayed Kate McCallister in the first two "Home Alone" films and lent her voice to characters like Sally and Shock in "The Nightmare Before Christmas" and Delia Deetz in Tim Burton's "Beetlejuice" films. Her versatile talent allowed her to excel in both comedic and dramatic roles, leaving an enduring legacy in cinema. O'Hara also frequently collaborated with Christopher Guest on mockumentary films such as "For Your Consideration," "Best in Show," "Waiting for Guffman," and "A Mighty Wind," further showcasing her comedic genius.
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) Television, the producer of "Schitt's Creek," issued a statement celebrating O'Hara as a beloved Canadian icon whose brilliance illuminated screens and stages globally. They praised her unmatched talent and rare, radiant spirit in all her endeavors, from SCTV to "Home Alone" and her unforgettable performance as Moira Rose. The CBC acknowledged that her passing leaves a void, sending heartfelt condolences to her family and friends, and affirming that she will be profoundly missed.
Catherine O'Hara's impact on her peers and the wider entertainment community was profound, marked by her unique artistic gifts and the warmth of her character. Her role as Moira Rose, a character of unmatched theatricality and charm, became a cultural touchstone, embodying the creative spirit that propelled "Schitt's Creek" to critical acclaim. The numerous awards she received for this performance, including a Primetime Emmy and a Golden Globe, attest to her exceptional talent. Her collaborations with comedic legends like Eugene Levy and Christopher Guest further solidified her standing as a giant in the world of comedy, demonstrating a career rich with iconic characters and memorable performances that will continue to inspire and entertain for generations.
