What Led to Catherine O'Hara's Tragic Pulmonary Embolism?

The recent passing of award-winning actress Catherine O'Hara has left a profound impact on her fans and colleagues alike. O'Hara, aged 71, died on 30 January 2025, due to a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer listed as a long-term cause of death. Her legacy, particularly through roles in iconic series such as Schitt's Creek and The Studio, continues to resonate, as tributes pour in from friends and admirers, highlighting her talent and warmth.

Last updated: 02 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Catherine O'Hara's death has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the entertainment industry. Known for her remarkable versatility and comedic genius, O'Hara's passing has left a notable void in Hollywood. Friends and co-workers have taken to social media to share heartfelt messages, celebrating her life and contributions to television and film. As the news settles, fans and the industry alike are reflecting on her significant impact on comedy and drama.

Key takeaways

• Catherine O'Hara died on 30 January 2025 from a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer as a contributing factor.
• She was 71 years old and had been undergoing treatment for cancer since March 2025.
• O'Hara was celebrated for her roles in Schitt's Creek, The Studio, and The Last of Us.

Timeline: how we got here

The following timeline provides an overview of Catherine O'Hara's recent health struggles and her contributions to the entertainment industry:

• March 2025: Catherine O'Hara begins treatment for rectal cancer.
• 30 January 2025: O'Hara passes away due to a pulmonary embolism; rectal cancer listed as a long-term cause of death.
• 2023: O'Hara stars in Emmy-winning The Studio and HBO's The Last of Us.
• 2015-2020: O'Hara gains widespread acclaim for her role in Schitt's Creek, winning an Emmy Award.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The confirmation of O'Hara's cause of death has been publicly revealed through her death certificate, indicating both pulmonary embolism and rectal cancer as significant factors. This news provides a clearer understanding of her health struggles leading up to her passing.

What was already established

Prior to her death, O'Hara had been celebrated for her contributions to television and film, particularly for her work in Schitt's Creek and her recent roles in The Studio and The Last of Us. Her reputation as a comedic actress and her impact on the industry were well-known, with many colleagues expressing admiration for her talent and kindness.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The loss of Catherine O'Hara resonates beyond Hollywood, impacting fans in the UK and around the world. Her roles in beloved series contribute to the cultural fabric of television, and her passing may inspire viewers to revisit her work. Her contributions to comedy and drama will continue to entertain and inspire future generations.

Businesses and jobs

O'Hara's passing is felt deeply within the entertainment sector. The success of shows like Schitt's Creek and The Studio, which featured O'Hara, has had a significant economic impact, including job creation within the industry. Her absence may prompt discussions about the future of such productions and the importance of her unique contributions to character-driven narratives.

Policy and regulation

While O'Hara's death does not directly influence policy, it may lead to renewed discussions on health awareness and cancer treatment access, especially for those in the entertainment industry. Her passing highlights the importance of early detection and the ongoing need for support systems for artists facing health challenges.

Numbers that matter

• 71: Age at which Catherine O'Hara passed away.
• 5: The number of Emmy Awards won by Schitt's Creek, showcasing its critical acclaim.
• 2: The number of decades O'Hara had been active in the entertainment industry, solidifying her legacy.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Pulmonary embolism: A blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs, often caused by blood clots that travel to the lungs from the legs.
• Rectal cancer: A type of cancer that begins in the rectum, which is the last part of the large intestine.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate aftermath of O'Hara's death, fans and the entertainment community will likely continue to share tributes and memories. Media outlets will focus on celebrating her life and contributions, potentially leading to retrospectives on her most significant works.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As time passes, there may be initiatives to honour O'Hara's legacy, possibly including awards or scholarship funds in her name. Additionally, discussions around health awareness in the industry may gain traction, inspired by her experiences with cancer.

Signals to watch

• Future projects featuring O'Hara that may be released posthumously.
• Tributes or events held in her honour by industry peers.
• Increased awareness campaigns surrounding cancer treatment and prevention in the entertainment sector.

Practical guidance

Do

• Watch O'Hara's notable performances to appreciate her legacy.
• Share memories and tributes to celebrate her life on social media.
• Engage in discussions about health awareness and support in the industry.

Don’t

• Don’t let her passing overshadow her achievements; instead, focus on celebrating her contributions.
• Avoid speculation about her health; respect the privacy of her family and friends during this time.

Checklist

• Reflect on your favourite Catherine O'Hara performances.
• Consider supporting cancer research organisations in her memory.
• Engage with community discussions about the importance of health awareness.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the specifics surrounding O'Hara's health have been revealed, the nature of her cancer treatment and its impact on her overall health remains complex and personal. The entertainment industry is often scrutinised for how it addresses health issues, and O'Hara's case may highlight the need for better support systems for artists facing such challenges.

Bottom line

Catherine O'Hara's passing marks the loss of a talented actress whose influence stretched across multiple generations. Her legacy in comedy and drama will continue to be felt, and her contributions will inspire future artists. As we reflect on her life, it is essential to celebrate her achievements while also advocating for health awareness and support in the entertainment industry.

FAQs

What were the causes of Catherine O'Hara's death?

Catherine O'Hara died from a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer listed as a long-term cause of death. She had been undergoing treatment for cancer since March 2025.

What is Catherine O'Hara best known for?

Catherine O'Hara is best known for her roles in the Emmy-winning series Schitt's Creek, The Studio, and her performances in the Home Alone films.

How has the entertainment industry reacted to O'Hara's passing?

Many actors and industry peers have shared heartfelt tributes on social media, celebrating her talent, warmth, and the impact she had on their lives and careers.