The entertainment industry is in mourning as the news of Catherine O’Hara’s passing on Jan. 30 has left fans and colleagues devastated. The beloved actress, best known for her role as Moira Rose on the hit sitcom “Schitt’s Creek,” succumbed to a brief illness at the age of 71.
O’Hara’s portrayal of the eccentric and flamboyant Moira Rose endeared her to audiences around the world during the show’s run from 2015 to 2020. Her on-screen chemistry with co-stars Eugene Levy, Dan Levy, and Annie Murphy brought laughter and joy to viewers everywhere.
Dan Levy, who co-created and starred in “Schitt’s Creek,” took to Instagram to express his grief over the loss of O’Hara. He fondly remembered the years of collaboration with her and described her as a brilliant talent whose presence will be sorely missed. He extended his condolences to O’Hara’s family during this difficult time.
The premise of “Schitt’s Creek” follows the Rose family as they adjust to life in a small town after losing their fortune. The show’s ensemble cast, which included Emily Hampshire, Jennifer Robertson, Noah Reid, Sarah Levy, and Chris Elliott, contributed to its success and critical acclaim.
Jennifer Robertson, who played Jocelyn Schitt on the series, shared her sorrow at O’Hara’s passing in a statement to USA Today. She described O’Hara as a shining star who downplayed her own talent and left a lasting impact on everyone she encountered.
Chris Elliott, who portrayed Roland Schitt on the show, also paid tribute to O’Hara’s warmth and generosity in a heartfelt message. He recalled the joy of working with her on set and shared a special memory of a shared shopping excursion.
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), which produced “Schitt’s Creek,” honored O’Hara’s legacy in a statement, praising her unparalleled talent and radiant spirit. O’Hara’s awards and accolades for her role as Moira Rose underscored her exceptional performance and comedic timing.
Prior to her iconic role on “Schitt’s Creek,” O’Hara collaborated with Eugene Levy on several mockumentary films, showcasing their comedic chemistry and versatility. Colleagues and friends, including Christopher Guest, expressed their devastation at the loss of a comedic legend.
O’Hara’s illustrious career also included memorable roles in classic films such as “Home Alone,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” and “Beetlejuice.” Her versatility and unique charm endeared her to audiences of all ages and solidified her status as a beloved actress.
As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues alike, the entertainment industry mourns the loss of a true talent. Catherine O’Hara’s legacy will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for generations to come.
