Catherine O’Hara and her husband, Bo Welch, reportedly kept her illness private in the days leading up to the beloved actress’ death, leaving friends and colleagues stunned by the sudden loss.
Catherine O’Hara died Friday at the age of 71, her agency confirmed following initial reports. In a statement, representatives said the multi-award-winning actress, writer, and comedian passed away at her Los Angeles home after a brief illness.
The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed that first responders were called to O’Hara’s home at 4:48 a.m. Friday and transported her to a hospital in serious condition. A cause of death has not yet been released, though 911 dispatch audio indicated she was experiencing breathing difficulties in her final hours.
According to reports, O’Hara’s husband of more than three decades, Bo Welch, may have understood the seriousness of her condition, but many close to the actress were unaware of how ill she was. Sources told British tabloids that friends were left in complete shock by the news of her death.
O’Hara had reportedly stepped away from filming Season 2 of Seth Rogen’s upcoming series The Studio just days before she died, citing personal matters. Production schedules were quietly adjusted, and insiders later said it was not widely known she was dealing with major health issues.
The legendary performer leaves behind Welch and their two sons, Matthew, 31, and Luke, 29.
O’Hara’s career spanned decades and generations. She first became a cult favorite through projects like Beetlejuice, Waiting for Guffman, and Best in Show, before reaching mainstream superstardom as the frantic but lovable mom in Home Alone. In recent years, she enjoyed a major career resurgence thanks to her Emmy-winning role on Schitt’s Creek.
In a 2024 interview, O’Hara reflected on aging and gratitude, saying she felt lucky simply to still be working. “How lucky are you right now to be alive?” she said at the time. “And then to have this opportunity right here in this moment?”
Following her death, tributes poured in from across Hollywood. Director Tim Burton called her a special part of his life, while longtime friend and collaborator Eugene Levy shared a heartfelt message remembering more than 50 years of friendship and creative partnership.
Michael Keaton described O’Hara as a true friend, and Macaulay Culkin, her on-screen son in Home Alone, shared an emotional tribute expressing regret that he didn’t have more time with her.
O’Hara’s family has confirmed that a private celebration of life will be held in the near future.