Seth Rogen Speaks Out on Catherine O’Hara’s Death

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Catherine O’Hara will always loom large in Seth Rogen’s mind.

Following the death of actress Joan Gregson on January 30th at age 71, a former colleague shared a heartfelt message remembering her as a talented Canadian comedian and expressing how much he enjoyed working with her on their award-winning television series.

Seth shared a photo of himself with O’Hara and wrote on Instagram that he was at a loss for words. He explained that when he first met her, he immediately thought she was the funniest person he’d ever seen perform.

The 43-year-old noted that it was Home Alone that “made me want to make movies.”

Working with her was a real privilege. Seth described her as funny, warm, insightful, and giving. He said she inspired him to make their show the best it could be, and he’s completely heartbroken by her loss. He feels fortunate to have known her and shared the world with such a special person.

Ron Howard, who starred with Catherine in the show Studio and also directed her in the 1994 film The Paper, shared a heartfelt tribute on X (formerly Twitter) on January 30th. He wrote that the news of her passing was devastating, describing her as a wonderful person, artist, and colleague.

I had the pleasure of working with her as a director, producer, and fellow actor, and I was constantly impressed by how much her talent flourished. I’m deeply saddened by this loss and send my condolences to Bo and her family.

Catherine O’Hara had a remarkable and diverse career, filled with memorable roles. Some of her most famous performances include Delia Deetz in Beetlejuice, Sally in The Nightmare Before Christmas, Cookie Fleck in Best in Show, and the Emmy-winning Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek. Her work on The Studio was just one example of her many iconic characters.

She was first worried playing Moira would be too similar to her previous role as Patty Leigh in The Studio, but she soon discovered a fresh approach to the character.

She told Vanity Fair in April that she worried she wouldn’t be able to create a new character. She was also concerned she’d unintentionally fall back into the voice of a previous role and couldn’t let go of it.

“But no,” Catherine added. “I’ve lost it. I’ve definitely lost it.”.

Despite any challenges, developing characters and using her gift for comedy came naturally to the actress known for Mighty Wind. She believes her family played a big role in helping her develop her sense of humor.

You know, I truly believe we’re all born with a sense of humor. But so often, whether that shines through depends on our upbringing. If you’re lucky enough to grow up in an environment where silliness is encouraged, it really blossoms. I definitely feel that was true for me – I had such a fun, playful family, and I think that really helped me nurture my own comedic side. It’s sad to think that life can sometimes stifle that natural gift, but I’m grateful I had a childhood that allowed mine to thrive. I was chatting about this with John Michael Higgins recently, and we both agreed how crucial those early experiences are.

Catherine was thankful not only for the support of her family—including her husband, Bo Welch, and their sons, Matthew, 32, and Luke, 28—but also for the kindness of everyone she’d worked with.

She said the best work environment is one where you’re surrounded by talented, supportive, and positive colleagues.

For more loving tributes to Catherine from those who knew her best, keep reading.

This goes way back, even before the first Beetlejuice movie. She’s been like a wife in my imagination, a playful rival, and a genuinely wonderful friend in real life. 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. I told O’Hara when we first met that she was the funniest person I’d ever seen perform. Home Alone actually inspired me to become a filmmaker, so working with her was a real honor. She was hilarious, genuinely kind, insightful, and incredibly generous. She pushed me to make our show the best it could be, worthy of her talent. This is just heartbreaking, and we were all so fortunate to have her in our lives.

I’m absolutely devastated by the news of Catherine O’Hara’s passing. She was a truly unique and radiant talent, and it’s hard to express how much her loss impacts me.

She was more than just a famous artist, actor, and comedian. She truly represented the best of Canada – incredibly talented, brave, uniquely herself, and deeply caring. She not only brought joy to the world but also helped people feel understood and valued.

As an artist, she was a huge inspiration to me. She showed me how to represent your country with skill and elegance, all while remaining kind and down-to-earth.

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

It’s okay to feel sad right now, and please know that you’re not the only one who is hurting. We’re all sharing in this grief. Rest peacefully, Catherine, and thank you for all you did.

I’m so thankful I had the chance to tell her how much she meant to me – she inspired me, influenced my sense of humor, and helped me understand our work. I always thought of her as the very best. I’m sure many actors told her similar things, but she never seemed to tire of hearing it. She listened with grace, humor, and genuine kindness. I want to thank Jason Reitman for letting me participate in the Film Independent LACMA reading, where I got to work with and witness the genius of my hero firsthand. Being around her and watching her work was incredible – I’ll cherish those moments forever. Both that day and during a shoot for Away We Go, she was wonderful to everyone, from the director to the production assistants. She truly lit up a room – she was radiant, almost otherworldly. Her talent was unique, and there will never be anyone quite like her. She was a genius and a beautiful person.

Catherine was an extraordinary person – kind, honest, intelligent, and had a wonderful sense of humor. She was beautiful inside and out, and her work showed her deep love for people. She possessed a rare combination of integrity, clarity, and wisdom, making her truly special. It’s easy to imagine her now with other great minds, sharing her incredible insights. We’re heartbroken here on Earth, and will miss her dearly, especially in these times. 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.”

Honestly, I still can’t believe I had the chance to work with, and even become friends with, Catherine O’Hara. It feels surreal. I’m heartbroken to know she’s gone, but so incredibly thankful for every moment I shared with her. Catherine, thank you for everything – I’ll always love you.

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

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

Being near you was a gift, and I’m endlessly thankful. The world feels dimmer now, but it will always cherish the time it had with you. Forever and always, you are one of a kind, Catherine O’Hara.

This news is devastating. She was a truly wonderful person, artist, and someone I loved working 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 incredibly sad to lose such a talented and genuine person. She was naturally funny, kind, and brought so much happiness to everyone around her. She’ll be greatly missed, and she inspired countless comedians and performers with her effortless skill and comedic timing. Every appearance she made was a perfect example of how to do comedy.

“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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2026-01-31 00:48