20 Things You Didn’t Know About Catherine O’Hara

1. Catherine O’Hara Began Her Career in Canadian Sketch Comedy

Before becoming an international star, Catherine O’Hara first made her mark in Canadian television, building her reputation through sketch comedy performances that showcased her natural talent.

2. She Was a Core Cast Member of the Legendary SCTV

O’Hara became widely respected as one of the standout performers on SCTV, a show that helped launch the careers of many comedy legends.

3. She Was Nearly Part of “Saturday Night Live”

Few fans know she was once offered a role on Saturday Night Live, but she ultimately declined in favor of continuing her work with SCTV.

4. She Built Her Fame Through Improvisational Comedy

Much of Catherine O’Hara’s success comes from her gift for improvisation, a skill she used brilliantly throughout her career, especially in mockumentary-style films.

5. Her “Home Alone” Role Made Her a Holiday Icon

As Kate McCallister, she became one of the most recognizable mothers in movie history, helping make Home Alone a timeless holiday classic.

6. She Almost Didn’t Get Cast in “Home Alone”

Although she seems irreplaceable now, casting choices were still being finalized before O’Hara landed the beloved role.

7. She Worked Closely with Director Christopher Guest

O’Hara became a staple in Christopher Guest’s films, appearing in favorites like Best in Show and A Mighty Wind.

8. Many of Her Best Scenes Were Completely Improvised

In Christopher Guest’s movies, actors often created their own dialogue, and Catherine O’Hara’s improvisations became some of the funniest moments on screen.

9. “Best in Show” Remains One of Her Most Celebrated Performances

Her role as Cookie Fleck in Best in Show is widely considered one of the greatest comedy performances of the early 2000s.

10. Moira Rose’s Accent Was Entirely Her Own Creation

The bizarre and unforgettable accent from Schitt’s Creek was invented by O’Hara herself, making Moira Rose even more iconic.

11. She Helped Turn “Schitt’s Creek” Into a Cultural Phenomenon

Her portrayal of Moira Rose played a major role in the show’s massive popularity and award-winning success.

12. She Won Major Awards Later in Life

Although respected for decades, O’Hara earned her first Emmy much later in her career thanks to Schitt’s Creek.

13. She Was Also a Brilliant Voice Actress

Beyond live-action comedy, Catherine O’Hara lent her voice to several animated films and shows, proving her versatility.

14. She Starred in Tim Burton’s “Beetlejuice”

O’Hara played Delia Deetz in Beetlejuice (1988), becoming part of one of the most beloved fantasy comedies ever made.

15. She Returned to the “Beetlejuice” Franchise Decades Later

Years after the original film, she delighted fans by returning in the sequel Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, proving her lasting appeal.

16. She Was Born and Raised in Toronto

Catherine O’Hara was proudly Canadian, growing up in Toronto as part of a large family with six siblings.

17. She Always Maintained Strong Canadian Roots

Even after achieving Hollywood stardom, she remained connected to Canadian culture and entertainment throughout her life.

18. She Met Her Husband Through the Film Industry

O’Hara met her husband, production designer Bo Welch, while working in film. They married in 1992 and shared two sons.

19. She Continued Working on New Projects Well Into Her Later Years

Unlike many stars who slow down, Catherine O’Hara remained active in both film and television, constantly embracing new roles.

20. She Will Be Remembered as One of Comedy’s Greatest Icons

From Home Alone to Schitt’s Creek, Catherine O’Hara brought laughter and joy to millions, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy.Catherine O’Hara’s career was filled with remarkable achievements, surprising stories, and iconic roles that will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.