Beloved Canadian actress Catherine O’Hara, known for her memorable roles on both the big and small screens, has passed away at the age of 71. The news of her death, following a brief illness, was confirmed by her agency, Creative Artists Agency.

O’Hara leaves behind her husband, Bo Welch, their adult sons Matthew and Luke, as well as her siblings. Hailing from Toronto, O’Hara gained fame for her iconic performances in popular productions such as “Home Alone,” “Beetlejuice,” “Best in Show,” and the acclaimed series “Schitt’s Creek.”

Her extensive career, spanning back to the 1970s, included recent appearances in “The Last of Us” and “The Studio.” O’Hara was a founding member of the original cast of “SCTV” alongside renowned stars like Eugene Levy, Andrea Martin, and John Candy.

Celebrated for her talent, O’Hara received numerous accolades, including two Primetime Emmy Awards. Her role as Moira Rose in “Schitt’s Creek” garnered her critical acclaim and contributed to the show’s success as an outstanding comedy series.

Colleagues and friends, including Martin Short and Christopher Guest, expressed their deep sorrow over O’Hara’s passing, noting her immense talent and impact on the entertainment industry. O’Hara’s contributions were also recognized by the Canadian government, as she was honored as an Officer of the Order of Canada and received a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame.

Tributes poured in from fellow actors like Macaulay Culkin, Seth Rogen, and Michael Keaton, who remembered her as a brilliant talent and a dear friend. Leaders, including Prime Minister Mark Carney and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, mourned the loss of a beloved Canadian icon and acclaimed comedian.

O’Hara’s passing has left a void in the hearts of many, with fans and colleagues alike remembering her wit, charm, and exceptional talent that endeared her to audiences worldwide. Canada and the entertainment industry have truly lost a legend in Catherine O’Hara.