Catherine O’Hara is a name that resonates with comedy lovers, film buffs, and TV enthusiasts alike. Known for her impeccable comedic timing, versatile acting skills, and unforgettable characters, O’Hara has built a legacy that spans over four decades. From her early days in sketch comedy to her recent ventures into the world of pickleball, her journey is as dynamic as it is inspiring.
As of April 2, 2025, Catherine O’Hara continues to captivate audiences, blending her storied career with a newfound connection to the trending sport of pickleball. This article dives deep into her life, career, iconic roles, and her surprising link to pickleball, offering the latest insights into one of Hollywood’s most beloved talents.
Early Life: A Comedic Talent Born in Toronto
Catherine Anne O’Hara was born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, into a large Irish Catholic family. The sixth of seven children, she grew up in a household where humor was a priority. Her parents encouraged creativity, and O’Hara found herself entertaining her siblings with impersonations and skits from a young age. This early knack for performance set the stage for her future in comedy.
She attended Burnhamthorpe Collegiate Institute in Etobicoke, where she crossed paths with future comedic collaborator Robin Duke. After high school, O’Hara didn’t pursue formal acting training right away. Instead, she took a job waitressing at Toronto’s Second City Theatre, a legendary improv comedy hub. Her time there wasn’t just about serving tables it was her gateway into the world of performance. She soon became an understudy for Gilda Radner, stepping into the spotlight when Radner left for Saturday Night Live in 1974.
Career Beginnings: From Second City to SCTV
O’Hara’s career kicked off in earnest when she joined The Second City troupe in Toronto. In 1976, this group launched Second City Television (SCTV), a sketch comedy show that would become her breakout platform. On SCTV, O’Hara showcased her versatility, impersonating icons like Lucille Ball and Katharine Hepburn while creating original characters like the flamboyant Lola Heatherton. Her work earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series in 1982, cementing her status as a comedic force.
Her time on SCTV wasn’t without detours. In 1981, she briefly joined Saturday Night Live to replace Ann Risley but left before appearing on air, opting to return to SCTV when it signed with NBC. This decision paid off, as the show continued to build her reputation alongside fellow Canadian talents like John Candy and Eugene Levy.
Iconic Roles: A Film and TV Legacy
Catherine O’Hara’s transition from TV to film brought her some of the most memorable roles in entertainment history. Here’s a look at her standout performances:
Beetlejuice (1988)
O’Hara’s big-screen breakthrough came with Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice, where she played Delia Deetz, a quirky, pretentious artist. Her comedic chemistry with co-stars Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder made the film a cult classic. In 2024, she reprised the role in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, delighting fans with her return to the spooky, hilarious universe. The sequel’s success reaffirmed her enduring appeal.
Home Alone (1990) and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
Perhaps her most universally recognized role is Kate McCallister, the frantic mother in Home Alone. Her iconic “KEVIN!” scream became a pop culture staple, and she reprised the role in the 1992 sequel. O’Hara’s portrayal of a loving yet frazzled mom resonated with audiences, and her bond with co-star Macaulay Culkin remains strong he still calls her “Mom” and invited her to his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony in 2023.
Schitt’s Creek (2015–2020)
O’Hara reached new heights as Moira Rose in the hit series Schitt’s Creek. Playing a former soap star with a penchant for wigs and an eccentric vocabulary, she earned critical acclaim and a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series in 2020. The role showcased her ability to blend absurdity with heart, making Moira a fan favorite.
Christopher Guest Mockumentaries
O’Hara’s collaborations with director Christopher Guest produced gems like Waiting for Guffman (1996), Best in Show (2000), A Mighty Wind (2003), and For Your Consideration (2006). Her improvisational skills shone in these films, particularly as Cookie Fleck in Best in Show, where she played a dog-show enthusiast with a hilariously checkered past.
| Film/TV Show | Role | Year | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beetlejuice | Delia Deetz | 1988 | Cult classic status |
| Home Alone | Kate McCallister | 1990 | Iconic “KEVIN!” moment |
| Schitt’s Creek | Moira Rose | 2015–2020 | Emmy win for Outstanding Lead Actress |
| Best in Show | Cookie Fleck | 2000 | American Comedy Award |
Catherine O’Hara and Pickleball: A Surprising Connection
In recent years, pickleball has surged in popularity, especially among celebrities, and Catherine O’Hara has joined the trend. In January 2025, CNN reported on her involvement in a Michelob Ultra Super Bowl commercial titled “The ULTRA Hustle,” where she starred alongside Willem Dafoe. The ad features the duo taking on pickleball players pros and amateurs alike in a quest for beer. O’Hara’s natural ease on the court surprised even her, as she noted, “Everyone was so kind, and the director was so encouraging… I immediately thought, ‘Yeah, wait a minute, I’m good!’”
This wasn’t her first Super Bowl ad she had a cameo in a 2022 Nissan spot but the pickleball-themed commercial highlighted her athletic side. While she’s not confirmed as a regular player, her fun-loving personality aligns perfectly with the sport’s social, accessible nature. Fans speculate she might embrace it more publicly, given her energetic spirit and Hollywood’s pickleball craze.
- Why Pickleball Fits O’Hara:
- Easy to learn, appealing to all ages
- Social and community-driven, matching her warm demeanor
- A fun outlet for her comedic energy
Personal Life: Family, Love, and Legacy
O’Hara’s personal life is as rich as her career. She met production designer Bo Welch on the set of Beetlejuice in 1988, thanks to an introduction by Tim Burton. They married in 1992 and have two sons, Matthew (born 1994) and Luke (born 1997). Welch, known for his work on films like Edward Scissorhands, shares O’Hara’s creative spirit, and their playful dynamic shone during her 2021 Golden Globe acceptance speech when he jokingly played applause and orchestra music to tease her.
She’s also close with her family, including her sister, singer-songwriter Mary Margaret O’Hara. Catherine herself has musical talents, having written and performed in A Mighty Wind. Despite her fame, she remains grounded, once telling Rolling Stone in 1983, “I’m pretty much a good Catholic girl at heart.”
O’Hara has a rare condition called situs inversus, where her internal organs are mirrored from their typical positions. This hasn’t impacted her health, but it’s a unique footnote to her story.
Awards and Net Worth: A Career of Accolades
With a career spanning over 40 years, O’Hara has racked up numerous awards:
- 1982: Primetime Emmy for Writing (SCTV)
- 1999: Genie Award for Best Supporting Actress (The Life Before This)
- 2020: Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress (Schitt’s Creek)
- 2021: Golden Globe for Best Actress in a TV Series – Musical or Comedy (Schitt’s Creek)
Her net worth is estimated at $10 million as of 2025, reflecting her success across film, TV, and endorsements like the Michelob Ultra ad.
The Latest in 2025: What’s Next for Catherine O’Hara?
As of April 2, 2025, O’Hara shows no signs of slowing down. Following the 2024 release of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, she’s basking in renewed attention. Her Super Bowl commercial has sparked buzz about her pickleball skills, and fans are eager to see if she’ll take up the paddle more seriously. With her knack for picking roles that resonate, her next project whether on screen or on the court will undoubtedly keep her in the spotlight.
Conclusion: A Timeless Icon
Catherine O’Hara’s journey from a Toronto comedy stage to Hollywood stardom is a testament to her talent, resilience, and charm. Her iconic roles in Beetlejuice, Home Alone, and Schitt’s Creek have left an indelible mark, while her pickleball cameo adds a fresh twist to her legacy. At 71, she remains a vibrant force, blending humor, heart, and a touch of athletic flair. Whether you’re a fan of her classic characters or curious about her paddle-wielding prowess, Catherine O’Hara’s story is one worth celebrating.
