Catherine O'Hara, the award-winning actress best known for her roles in Emmy-winning series 'Schitt's Creek' and the beloved holiday films 'Home Alone', tragically passed away on January 30 at the age of 71. Her death certificate confirmed that she died from a pulmonary embolism, which occurs when a blood clot lodges in a lung artery, restrictively blocking blood flow. This condition can manifest severely, highlighting its life-threatening potential.
In addition to the pulmonary embolism, the certificate noted that rectal cancer was a long-term cause of death. It was reported that O'Hara had been receiving ongoing treatment for the cancer since March 2025.
With her passing, tributes have surged from friends and co-stars across the entertainment industry, expressing sorrow and celebrating her contributions to film and television. Actor Seth Rogen expressed his grief, lauding her as “hysterical, kind, intuitive, generous,” while Pedro Pascal, who worked with her on 'The Last of Us', shared a heartfelt note expressing gratitude for her brilliance.
O'Hara's legacy is characterized not just by her acting prowess, which earned her numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award for best comedy actress, but also by the profound impact she had on those who knew her. She is survived by her husband Bo Welch, her sons Matthew and Luke, and her six siblings.
In addition to the pulmonary embolism, the certificate noted that rectal cancer was a long-term cause of death. It was reported that O'Hara had been receiving ongoing treatment for the cancer since March 2025.
With her passing, tributes have surged from friends and co-stars across the entertainment industry, expressing sorrow and celebrating her contributions to film and television. Actor Seth Rogen expressed his grief, lauding her as “hysterical, kind, intuitive, generous,” while Pedro Pascal, who worked with her on 'The Last of Us', shared a heartfelt note expressing gratitude for her brilliance.
O'Hara's legacy is characterized not just by her acting prowess, which earned her numerous accolades, including an Emmy Award for best comedy actress, but also by the profound impact she had on those who knew her. She is survived by her husband Bo Welch, her sons Matthew and Luke, and her six siblings.
