The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Emmy-winning actress Catherine O’Hara, who passed away on January 30, 2026, at the age of 71.
While the cause of her death has yet to be confirmed, it has sent shockwaves through fans and her former co-stars, especially Macaulay Culkin, her onscreen son in the beloved Home Alone films.
Macaulay Culkin Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Catherine O'Hara
Macaulay Culkin, who starred alongside O'Hara in Home Alone (1990) and its sequel Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992), shared a poignant tribute to the actress on Instagram.
Reflecting on their onscreen mother-son relationship, Culkin wrote: “Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you but I had so much more to say. I love you. I’ll see you later.”
The emotional post included side-by-side images of them in Home Alone and a more recent photo taken in 2023.
Having worked together when Culkin was just 10 years old, the two formed a lasting bond, with Culkin often calling O’Hara a “mother figure.”
Their connection was evident during the Home Alone films, which became an annual holiday tradition for millions of viewers around the world.
O'Hara’s character, Kate McCallister, became a beloved part of the film's iconic moments, from her frantic chase to reunite with her son to her tender moments of care and concern.
Culkin and O'Hara’s Touching Reunion at Hollywood Walk of Fame
One of the final public moments between Culkin and O'Hara was in December 2023, when she supported him at his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony.
As part of the emotional event, O'Hara introduced Culkin and spoke fondly of his portrayal of Kevin McCallister in Home Alone.
She referred to his performance as "perfect" and praised his natural talent, adding: "I know you worked really hard. I know you did, but you made acting look like the most natural thing in the world to do."
O'Hara also highlighted Culkin's distinct sense of humor, noting that it always brought a unique charm to every project he worked on.
She concluded her speech with a lighthearted, humorous remark, saying: "And thank you for including me, your fake mom who left you home alone not once, but twice, to share in this happy occasion. I'm so proud of you."
Culkin appeared downcast as he was spotted outside in LA in the hours following the announcement of O'Hara's death.
Co-Stars and Friends Mourn O'Hara's Passing
Beyond Culkin, O'Hara’s Home Alone co-stars are also expressing their sadness over her passing. Joe Pesci, who starred as one of the burglars in both Home Alone films, shared his condolences in a statement to PEOPLE: "She was a great actress, and she will be missed. God bless, rest in peace."
O'Hara’s legacy extended far beyond the Home Alone franchise. She was widely celebrated for her portrayal of Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek, a role that earned her an Emmy Award in 2020. Her talents were also showcased in recent roles, such as Patty Leigh in Apple TV+'s The Studio.
O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons, Matthew and Luke.