Dan Levy has paid a heartfelt tribute to his long-time collaborator and friend, Catherine O’Hara, following her unexpected death at the age of 71. The beloved Canadian actress and iconic figure in comedy, film, and queer culture passed away after a brief illness in Los Angeles. Her team confirmed the news, leaving fans and colleagues in mourning.
O’Hara was renowned for her roles in classic films such as Home Alone and Beetlejuice, but she experienced a significant career resurgence starting in 2015. Her portrayal of the extravagant matriarch Moira Rose in the acclaimed sitcom Schitt’s Creek captivated audiences and earned her numerous accolades. The series, co-created by Levy and his father Eugene Levy, aired for six seasons, concluding in 2020.
In a poignant Instagram post, Dan Levy shared a selfie with O’Hara and described her as “family.” He expressed his disbelief at her passing, stating, “It’s hard to imagine a world without her in it.” He reflected on their years of collaboration, emphasizing the joy of having worked alongside her, saying, “What a gift to have gotten to dance in the warm glow of Catherine O’Hara’s brilliance for all those years.”
O’Hara’s Career and Legacy
Catherine O’Hara began her career in the 1970s with Second City, an improvisational and sketch comedy theatre group in Toronto, where she first met Eugene Levy. Their partnership blossomed into a lifelong collaboration, culminating in their work on Schitt’s Creek. The series followed the misadventures of the Rose family, who find themselves relocated to a small town after losing their fortune. O’Hara’s performance as Moira Rose earned her a second Emmy Award in 2020.
In interviews, O’Hara often expressed her affinity for complex characters. In a 2021 conversation with The Guardian, she explained, “I’m always drawn to characters who have no idea of the impression they’re making on other people. We’re all delusional, really, and I love that about us humans and I love playing it.”
Levy also extended his condolences to O’Hara’s husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke, acknowledging the profound impact she had on her family and friends. “I will cherish every funny memory I was fortunate enough to make with her,” he added.
O’Hara’s passing has resonated deeply within the entertainment community, with tributes pouring in from colleagues and fans alike. The cast of Schitt’s Creek last reunited at the 2024 Emmy Awards, where Dan and Eugene Levy served as co-hosts, celebrating the show’s legacy and O’Hara’s unforgettable contributions.
As the world reflects on the life of Catherine O’Hara, her work continues to inspire countless individuals. Her remarkable talent and unique ability to portray both comedy and depth will be remembered and cherished by audiences around the globe.
Schitt’s Creek is currently available for streaming on various platforms, allowing new generations to discover the brilliance of O’Hara’s performance.
