Catherine O’Hara, the beloved actress known for her roles in film and television, passed away on January 30. Her manager confirmed the tragic news, revealing that O’Hara died from a pulmonary embolism, with underlying rectal cancer noted on her death certificate released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office.
A pulmonary embolism is characterized by a sudden blockage in a lung artery, typically caused by a blood clot, leading to serious health risks. Colorectal cancer, which involves uncontrolled cell growth in the colon or rectum, is recognized as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., according to the National Cancer Institute.
At the age of 71, O’Hara had not disclosed any health issues prior to her death. Just before her passing, she was part of the ensemble cast of the acclaimed Apple TV+ series “The Studio,” demonstrating her enduring presence in the entertainment industry. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a call for medical aid early in the morning of her death, transporting her to a hospital where she was reported to be in serious condition.
O’Hara’s illustrious career spanned over 100 roles in both television and film. Most notably, she earned widespread acclaim for her portrayal of Moira Rose in the hit series “Schitt’s Creek,” where she was celebrated for her comedic talent, garnering a Primetime Emmy Award in 2020 and a Golden Globe in 2021.
Following the news of her passing, heartfelt tributes flooded in from colleagues and fans alike. Dan Levy, who worked closely with O’Hara on “Schitt’s Creek,” shared a touching message on Instagram, reflecting on their years of collaboration and the profound impact she had on his life. He described her brilliance and expressed his disbelief at a world without her. The cast and crew of “The Studio” also released a statement expressing their sorrow, highlighting her warmth, humor, and the honor of working alongside her.
O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and her two sons, Matthew and Luke, leaving behind a rich legacy in the entertainment world that will be remembered for generations to come.