New information has emerged about the circumstances surrounding Catherine O’Hara’s unexpected death.
Beloved actress Catherine O’Hara, who passed away on January 30 at the age of 71, was found to have died from a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer listed as the underlying condition on her death certificate, released by the Los Angeles County authorities on February 9.
The Schitt’s Creek star was rushed to a Los Angeles hospital after experiencing severe breathing problems, but she did not recover.
O’Hara had not publicly discussed any cancer diagnosis prior to her death, though colleagues and fans noticed subtle signs of health struggles in the months before she passed. She skipped this year’s Golden Globes despite being nominated for her role in The Studio, and production sources said she had to delay filming on Season 2 of the series due to “personal matters.”
The actress appeared noticeably thinner at the Emmy Awards last September, where she walked the red carpet with her husband, Bo Welch, in what became her final public appearance.
News of her death stunned fans and fellow performers alike. Home Alone co-star Macaulay Culkin, who played her on-screen son, shared a heartfelt tribute calling her “Mama” and expressing regret that they didn’t have more time together. Tributes also poured in from her Schitt’s Creek co-stars and other industry friends following the announcement.
O’Hara’s illustrious career spanned more than fifty years on screen and stage. She was widely celebrated for her Emmy-winning portrayal of Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek and for memorable roles in beloved films including Home Alone and Beetlejuice.
She is survived by her husband of 33 years, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke.
