Catherine O’Hara was posthumously honored at the 2026 Actor Awards with the award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series. The ceremony took place on a Sunday night and marked an emotional tribute to the beloved actress, who passed away unexpectedly two months prior to the event.
Recognition of O’Hara’s Talent and Kindness
When O’Hara’s name was announced, the audience reacted with a heartfelt standing ovation. Seth Rogen accepted the award on her behalf and highlighted her “genius” and kindness, particularly during her time on the set of the comedy series The Studio. He praised her pivotal role as studio executive Patty Leigh.
A Reflection on Her Work
Rogen fondly recounted his experiences working alongside O’Hara. He mentioned that she had a remarkable ability to inspire others while showcasing her own talents. Before shooting scenes, O’Hara often sent suggestions through emails, leading to substantial improvements in the scripts.
- “Hello, I hope you’ll consider the following,” was a typical opening in her emails.
- Her revisions consistently enhanced both her character and the overall quality of the show.
- Rogen emphasized that O’Hara demonstrated how genius and kindness could coexist harmoniously in the creative process.
Legacy of a Comedy Icon
Catherine O’Hara passed away on January 30 at the age of 71 after a private battle with cancer. She is celebrated as one of the leading comic actresses of her era. Her career began with the Toronto chapter of Second City, where she gained fame through the acclaimed series SCTV.
O’Hara’s extensive filmography includes iconic performances in films such as the Home Alone series, Beetlejuice, and Martin Scorsese’s After Hours. In recent years, she garnered widespread recognition for her role as Moira Rose on the hit television show Schitt’s Creek.
In 2025, she received multiple Emmy nominations for her performances in The Studio and The Last of Us, further solidifying her status as a talented actress beloved by audiences and peers alike.
