Michael Keaton Details Bond With Beetlejuice Costar Catherine O’Hara

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Michael Keaton is sharing his earliest memories of Catherine O’Hara.

The actor shared a story about his friendship with his late Beetlejuice co-star, who passed away on January 30th at age 71 after a short illness. He explained that they quickly became friends because they both grew up in big families, and this connection made working together on the Tim Burton comedy much easier.

He recalled possibly meeting someone while filming a movie in Toronto. Speaking at the Hasty Pudding Theatricals ceremony on February 6th, he explained they likely connected because they both come from large families – each of them being one of seven children. This shared background led to a friendship.

Their friendship continued for many years after filming the popular 1988 movie. Almost twenty years later, Michael, now 74, even asked his friend, who first became known on SCTV, to be in a new film he was making.

He was working on a small film called Game 6 in 2005, which was set in Boston. He and Griffin Dunne were discussing the cast before anyone was hired. He suggested Catherine O’Hara for the role of his ex-wife, and after asking if she’d be interested, he called her and she agreed to come on board.

After Catherine’s death, Michael—having recently worked with her on the 2024 film Beetlejuice Beetlejuice—shared his sadness online, along with many others.

He shared on Instagram on January 30th that she’d been like a wife and a rival in playful ways, but most importantly, a genuine friend. He added that he was deeply saddened by her loss and would miss her greatly.

Many others also paid tribute to Catherine. Read on to see what other celebrities shared after her passing.

It was a true joy to work alongside Catherine O’Hara for so many years and witness her incredible talent. After spending over fifty years collaborating with my father, Catherine felt like family long before she played one on screen. It’s hard to imagine life without her. I’ll always treasure the funny moments we shared, and my thoughts are with Bo, Matthew, Luke, and her entire wonderful family.

This goes all the way back to before the first Beetlejuice movie. She’s been like a wife, a rival, and a genuinely wonderful friend to me. I’m really heartbroken. I’m going to miss her terribly, and I’m also thinking of Beau.

Mom, I didn’t realize time was so short. I wish I’d had more time with you, just to sit and talk. I heard you, but there was so much left unsaid. I love you, and I’ll see you again someday.

I’m truly at a loss for words. From the moment I first saw O’Hara perform, I knew she was a comedic genius – Home Alone actually inspired me to pursue filmmaking! Working with her was an absolute honor. She was hilarious, of course, but also incredibly kind, perceptive, and generous. She pushed me to make our show the best it could be, something worthy of her talent. This is just heartbreaking, and I feel so grateful that we all got to experience her brilliance.

“Catherine, I love you… You were a special part of my life and after life.”

I’m utterly devastated by Catherine O’Hara‘s passing. She was a truly unique and radiant person, and it’s hard to express how deeply her loss is felt.

She was more than just a famous performer – a truly gifted artist, actor, and comedian. She represented the best of Canada, radiating brilliance, courage, and genuine originality, all with a warm, human touch. She didn’t just entertain; she connected with people on a deep level, making them feel understood.

As an artist, she had a profound impact on me. She showed me what it means to represent your country with skill, elegance, and genuine kindness – never letting success change who she was.

I’m deeply saddened for her family, friends, and all who loved her, here in Canada and everywhere else.

If you’re feeling sad about this, please know that you’re not the only one. We’re all sharing in this grief. Rest peacefully, Catherine, and thank you for all you’ve done.

I’m so thankful I had the chance to tell her how much she meant to me – she truly inspired me, influenced my sense of humor, and helped me understand our work. I always thought of her as the best of the best, and I’m sure many actors felt the same way. What was amazing was that she never seemed to tire of hearing it; she listened with genuine kindness, wit, and grace. I want to thank Jason Reitman for letting me participate in the Film Independent LACMA reading, where I got to work with my hero and see her genius up close. Being around her and watching her work was incredible, and I’ll cherish those moments forever. Both that day and during a shoot for Away We Go, she was consistently kind and wonderful to everyone, from the director to the production assistants. She had this amazing ability to light up a room – she was radiant and almost otherworldly. Her talent was truly unique. There will never be another artist like her. She was a genius and a beautiful soul.

Catherine was an extraordinary person – kind, honest, intelligent, and had a wonderful sense of humor. She was strikingly beautiful, full of life, and deeply cared about people, which shone through in everything she did. Her wisdom, clarity, and strong character made her truly special. It feels like all those who inspired her are now eager to learn from her. We’re heartbroken here, and she’ll be deeply missed, especially in times like these. Rest peacefully, dear friend.

Catherine O’Hara was a truly genuine and honest person, both in her work and in her personal life. Her authenticity shone through everything she did, and was especially clear to those who knew and loved her. Our hearts go out to her sons, Bo, Luke, and Matthew. May she rest peacefully, and may her memory live on forever.

“Catherine O’Hara. The absolute greatest. Only 71. An angel. The funniest. This is shocking.”

Being near you was a gift, and I’m endlessly thankful. The world feels dimmer now that you’re gone, but this fortunate world that knew you will always cherish your memory. Forever and always, you are one of a kind, Catherine O’Hara.

I honestly never imagined I’d have the chance to work with Catherine O’Hara, and even more surprisingly, become friends with her. I’m deeply saddened by her passing, but so thankful for the time we shared. Thank you, Catherine – I’ll always cherish our connection and I loved her very much.

“Oh Catherine. You will be so so missed.”

“She was an all-timer. Her memory and work is a blessing. Rest peacefully.”

I’m still in shock and can’t accept that she’s gone. It’s incredibly painful to think about the loss of someone so vibrant and full of life, especially when she had so much more to offer. Saying goodbye feels impossible. She brought so much joy and laughter to everyone, and that’s why we’re all feeling this immense pain now, knowing we won’t experience that joy again. Rest in peace. My heart goes out to her family during this difficult time.

Catherine O’Hara was a wonderfully funny performer. She was loved by so many, and that likely includes just about everyone.

This news is devastating. She was a truly wonderful person, a talented artist, and a joy to work with. I feel so fortunate to have directed, produced, and acted alongside her – she just kept getting better and better. My deepest sympathies go to Bo and her family.

“Absolutely heartbreaking. She was the kindest person in our business.”

Francesca was speechless after seeing her dad’s reaction on FaceTime, sharing a photo and saying she was completely heartbroken and in disbelief.

It’s a huge loss. She was incredibly talented, graceful, and down-to-earth – a natural performer who brought so much happiness to everyone. She’ll be greatly missed, and she inspired anyone who admired comedy. Every time she performed, it was a lesson in how it’s done.

Catherine O’Hara, a treasured Canadian comedian and actress known for roles in everything from SCTV and Home Alone to her iconic portrayal of Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, brought laughter and warmth to audiences of all ages. She uniquely showcased Canadian stories to the world. Our hearts go out to her family, friends, and all who loved her work.

“BEST OF THE BEST IN SHOW!”

“Legend.”

“Ugggg legend. No one funnier.”

“Nooo my most profound condolences.”

She was truly inspiring, bringing joy and warmth to everyone through her comedy. We’ll always remember her kind spirit and may she rest in peace.

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2026-02-07 23:18