Beetlejuice Actress Catherine O’Hara Dies at 71

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Beetjeluice star Catherine O’Hara has reportedly died. She was 71.

According to reports from TMZ and confirmed by her manager to ABC, the iconic actress died on Friday. The reason for her death is currently unknown.

This Canadian-American actress, comedian, and writer began her career performing sketch and improvisational comedy before taking on more dramatic acting roles. She first gained recognition – and won an Emmy Award – on the series Second City Television.

Beginning her comedy career in 1974, she became well-known for her roles in popular films like After Hours (1985), Heartburn (1986), Beetlejuice (1998), and Home Alone (1990), where she famously played Kevin’s mother. She first appeared on film in 1980 with Double Negative, alongside Eugene Levy, whom she had previously worked with at the Second City Theater early in her career. The pair would collaborate on several projects later on.

I’ve always been a fan of Catherine O’Hara – she’s been in so many things over the years! But she really had a moment with Schitt’s Creek. Her portrayal of Moira Rose was just brilliant, and it was amazing to see her win both an Emmy and a Golden Globe for it. Plus, it was cool to see her work with Dan Levy, who created the show. And this year, in 2024, she brought back her iconic Delia Deetz in the new Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, which was a fantastic treat for any fan of the original!

In 2025, she appeared in Season 2 of The Last of Us, playing therapist Gail Lynden. She also had a main role as Patty Leigh, a former studio head and mentor to Matt, in the popular Apple TV comedy series The Studio.

Catherine O’Hara was born on March 4, 1954, and raised in Toronto, Ontario, as one of seven children. She is the older sister of Mary Margaret O’Hara, who is also a musician and actress.

I always loved Beetlejuice, but did you know that’s where Catherine O’Hara met her husband, Bo Welch? He was the production designer on the film, and they ended up getting married a few years later in 1992. They’re parents to two sons, Matthew and Luke, which is just a sweet story to add to everything I love about that movie!

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2026-01-30 21:37