Catherine O'Hara's Death Certificate Reveals Pulmonary Embolism as Immediate Cause
The official death certificate for acclaimed Canadian-American actress Catherine O'Hara, obtained by multiple news outlets, confirms she died from a pulmonary embolism. The document from Los Angeles County indicates that a blood clot in her lung was the immediate cause of death, while rectal cancer was listed as an underlying contributing condition.
Hospitalization and Final Days
According to reports from TMZ, O'Hara was rushed to the hospital in serious condition after experiencing significant difficulty breathing. The sudden medical emergency preceded her passing at age 71. Her representative confirmed the tragic news to HuffPost on January 30, marking the end of an illustrious career spanning decades.
Private Family Arrangements
A representative for the actress told People magazine that the family plans to hold a private celebration of life to honor O'Hara's memory. TMZ further reported that her remains were released to her husband, production designer Bo Welch, with whom she shared a long-lasting marriage and professional collaborations.
Legacy of a Comedic Icon
O'Hara built an extraordinary career through memorable performances in beloved films and television series. She became a household name for her role as Kate McCallister in the holiday classic Home Alone and earned widespread acclaim for her portrayal of Moira Rose on the Canadian sitcom Schitt's Creek. Her filmography also includes standout performances in Christopher Guest's mockumentaries like Best in Show and A Mighty Wind, establishing her as one of comedy's most versatile and respected talents.
Heartfelt Tributes from Co-Stars and Colleagues
Following news of her passing last month, an outpouring of grief and admiration came from those who worked closely with O'Hara throughout her career.
Macaulay Culkin, who played her son in Home Alone, shared a heartbreaking tribute on Instagram alongside photographs of their time together, expressing profound sadness at the loss of his on-screen mother.
Dan Levy, who portrayed her son on Schitt's Creek, wrote emotionally on Instagram about the privilege of working alongside O'Hara. "Having spent over fifty years collaborating with my Dad, Catherine was extended family before she ever played my family," Levy reflected. "It's hard to imagine a world without her in it. I will cherish every funny memory I was fortunate enough to make with her."
The cast of The Studio, a recent project where O'Hara played Patty mentoring a film executive character portrayed by Seth Rogen, released a collective statement expressing their devastation. "She was a hero to all of us, and we pinched ourselves every day that we got to work with her on 'The Studio,'" the statement read. "She was somehow classy, warm, and hilarious all at the same time. We're unbelievably saddened she is gone and send our deepest sympathy to Bo and all her family."
O'Hara's passing represents a significant loss to the entertainment industry, particularly within the Canadian cultural landscape where she maintained strong connections throughout her career. Her unique blend of warmth, intelligence, and impeccable comic timing leaves behind an enduring legacy that will continue to inspire performers and delight audiences for generations to come.
