The world of entertainment is mourning the loss of a true visionary. Emmy-winning actress Catherine O’Hara died at her home in Los Angeles on January 30, 2026. Her representatives confirmed she passed away following a brief illness. O’Hara was 71 years old and leaves behind a legacy of laughter that spanned five decades.
A Voice To Remember In The Disney Universe
While fans adore her live-action work, Disney enthusiasts recognize her as a vocal powerhouse. She famously voiced Sally in Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Her hauntingly beautiful performance of “Sally’s Song” remains a cornerstone of the Disney holiday season. She also voiced the mischievous Shock in the same film.
O’Hara’s Disney contributions didn’t stop in the 1990s. She recently touched hearts as Brook Ripple in Pixar’s Elemental. Her ability to bring warmth and humor to animated characters was unmatched. From Frankenweenie to Chicken Little, her voice became a familiar friend to generations of Disney fans.
From Home Alone To EPCOT
Perhaps her most famous maternal role was playing Kate McCallister in Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York. While originally released by Fox, these films are now major staples of the Disney+ library. Her iconic scream of “Kevin!” remains one of the most recognizable moments in cinema history, making her a permanent part of the Disney holiday tradition.
Guests at Walt Disney World have another special way to connect with her legacy. O’Hara currently serves as the narrator for “Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360” at EPCOT. Her narration brings a sense of pride and wit to the Canada Pavilion. This role cemented her as a permanent part of the Disney Park experience for millions of visitors.
An Unrivaled Career In Comedy
Beyond her Disney-adjacent roles, O’Hara was a comedic force of nature. She gained early fame on SCTV before starring in classics like Beetlejuice. Later, she found a new generation of fans as the eccentric Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek. Her unique delivery and “bébé” catchphrases earned her a well-deserved Emmy and solidified her status as a pop culture icon.
Catherine O’Hara is survived by her husband, Bo Welch, and their two sons. Her influence on comedy and her magical contributions to Disney will never be forgotten. She brought a sense of playfulness to every role she touched.
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