Catherine O'Hara Dies at 71 from Pulmonary Embolism

Catherine O'Hara, the acclaimed Canadian actress known for her roles in "Home Alone," "Beetlejuice" and "Schitt's Creek," died on January 30, 2026, at a hospital in Santa Monica, California. She was 71.

Her death certificate, issued by Los Angeles County officials, listed the immediate cause as a pulmonary embolism, a condition in which a blood clot blocks an artery in the lungs. Rectal cancer was identified as the underlying factor. O'Hara had been under the care of an oncologist since March 2025 for the cancer, with her last appointment on January 27. Paramedics responded to her Los Angeles home early that morning after reports of breathing difficulties and transported her to the hospital in serious condition. Despite treatment, she passed away later that day. Her representatives had initially described the death as resulting from a brief illness, which surprised many in the entertainment industry.

A pulmonary embolism can be life-threatening, often stemming from deep vein thrombosis in the legs, and is more common in cancer patients due to factors like inflammation and reduced mobility. The certificate also noted that O'Hara was cremated, with her remains given to her...