Catherine O’Hara passed away on January 30 at the age of 71. The renowned Canadian comedian and actress, who received Emmy and Golden Globe awards for her performances in “Schitt’s Creek,” “Home Alone,” and “Beetlejuice,” was a prominent figure in the Canadian entertainment industry. O’Hara’s career took off in the late 1970s with a breakthrough role on “SCTV.”
Raised in a musically inclined family, O’Hara, whose sister is acclaimed singer-songwriter Mary Margaret O’Hara, integrated music into her acting endeavors. She reminisced about the musical ambiance at home, influenced by big band jazz acts like Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller, and Frank Sinatra.
One of O’Hara’s notable roles was Lola Heatherton on “SCTV” from 1976 to 1983. Playing the eccentric singer Lola Heatherton, O’Hara brought a unique flair to the character, drawing inspiration from iconic performers like Lola Falana and Joey Heatherton. Her portrayal of Lola included memorable performances, such as the cheeky and suggestive rendition of “Bounce Back to You.”
In the 1993 film “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” O’Hara voiced the characters Sally and Shock, singing the poignant track “Sally’s Song.” She later performed the song live, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth.
O’Hara’s collaboration with writer/director Christopher Guest in mockumentaries like “Waiting for Guffman” and “A Mighty Wind” displayed her versatility. In “Waiting for Guffman,” O’Hara and Fred Willard portrayed Sheila and Ron Albertson, aspiring performers with a lack of talent but overflowing confidence, leading to hilariously cringe-inducing moments.
In “A Mighty Wind,” O’Hara starred as folk singer Mickey Crabbe alongside Eugene Levy, delivering heartwarming performances like “When You’re Next to Me.” Their on-screen chemistry and authenticity shone through in the romantic ballad, earning critical acclaim.
On “Schitt’s Creek,” O’Hara’s portrayal of Moira Rose allowed her to exhibit her character’s diverse talents, often stealing the spotlight in unexpected situations. Her rendition of Barbara Lewis’s “Baby I’m Yours” at her daughter’s graduation exemplified the character’s complexity and showcased O’Hara’s musical abilities.
Throughout her illustrious career, Catherine O’Hara left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with her talent and charm.