Monica Santana Huchin | Photo Editor
February 6, 2026
The entertainment world is currently mourning the loss of deeply loved actress and comedian Catherine O’Hara who passed away on January 30, 2026 at 71 years old. Many of her fans are also heartbroken by her unexpected passing. As someone who grew up watching her in movies such as Home Alone and Beetlejuice, she never failed to make me laugh or cry. In honor of her life, let’s take a closer look at the performances that made Catherine O’Hara a beloved figure in entertainment.
1. Home Alone 1 & 2
The holiday season isn’t complete without watching Kate McCallister forget her kid twice. In these blockbuster hits, O’Hara plays a frantic loving mother who forgets her kid at home and at the airport. However, she was determined to make her way back to Kevin, and the emotional reunion scene between the two will never fail to make viewers tear up. Decades later, O’Hara’s performance made Kate McCallister more than just a comedic figure, turning her into one of the most memorable movie moms of the 1990’s. Her portrayal remains a holiday tradition for many families which instantly granted her a place in pop culture.
2. The Nightmare Before Christmas
For many years, fans were unaware that the voice of Sally was played by O’Hara. Her soft and gentle voice not only brought Sally to life but it also turned the movie into a must-watch during the holiday season. Not only did O’Hara put a great amount of emotion into this movie, but her outstanding vocals in “Sally’s song” still give fans chills every time they watch the movie. SCHS Junior Antonella Valle is certain that “watching the movie will feel different going forward and everyone will feel more emotional when watching it, especially when listening to Sally’s song.”
3. Beetlejuice & Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
Another one of Catherine O’Hara’s famous roles is Delia Deetz from the classic Beetlejuice and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice movies. In this film, O’Hara plays an over-dramatic character, transforming the stereotypical antagonist into a memorable artist. In addition, her humor and performance in the “Day-o” Banana Boat song is widely known as iconic. Overall, her ridiculous and captivating character will continue to make people laugh for many years to come. Even though she is no longer with us, her powerful performance in this movie will forever remain quintessential.
4. Schitt’s Creek
Many people like to say that Catherine O’Hara was destined for the role of Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek. This show follows Moira, a former soap opera star who loses her fortune and ends up living in a motel in town with her family. O’Hara is known for her humor and sarcasm in the show and her funny and iconic quotes are the cherry on top. Many fans love Moira’s self absorbed character who still dresses in luxury even after she ends up living at a motel. SCHS junior Melanie Ortega believes that “Catherine O’Hara made this show complete” and is “glad the media and award shows gave her the recognition she deserved before passing away.” This role earned O’Hara a Primetime Emmy Award for outstanding lead actress in a comedy series and a Golden Globe award for best actress. Fans note that after her passing, they re-watched Schitt’s Creek as a form of comfort and to honor her legacy as a comedy legend.
For many years she didn’t get the praise that she deserved. It wasn’t until the end that many stopped to appreciate her for all that she has done for us. Although we are all saddened by her passing, it is without a doubt that her legacy will continue to live on. Every Christmas, Kate McCallister will be there, and when we need a good laugh, Moira Rose will always be there to comfort us.
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