Tim Burton Celebrates Catherine O’Hara’s “Light” Following Her Death

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Tim Burton is remembering Catherine O’Hara’s legacy on and off the screen.

Tim Burton spoke about his close relationship with Catherine O’Hara, who famously played Delia Deetz in both the original Beetlejuice movie from 1988 and the recent 2024 sequel, following her death on January 30th at age 71.

Tim shared a photo from the Beetlejuice set on Instagram on January 30th, along with a heartfelt message to Catherine. He wrote, “Catherine, I love you.” He explained the picture captured how much joy and positivity she brought to everyone around her, adding that she was a significant part of his life, both during her life and after.

I just saw the cutest photo from the set of the 2024 film! Tim and Catherine were beaming alongside their incredibly talented costars – Jenna Ortega, Winona Ryder, and Michael Keaton – all decked out in their character costumes. It really gives you a peek behind the scenes and shows how much fun they’re having!

Just hours after the news of Catherine Welch’s passing, her husband, Bo Welch, and sons, Matthew (32) and Luke (28), received a touching tribute from Tim. Catherine died in Los Angeles after a battle with an illness. Earlier that day, she was taken to a hospital in serious condition, according to a spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department.

Tim and Catherine, both 67, have collaborated on many projects, including the films The Nightmare Before Christmas and Frankenweenie. But their connection extends beyond the screen. Catherine actually introduced Tim, the producer of Corpse Bride, to her husband, and they’ve been married for over 30 years.

She revealed to Digital Spy in 2013 that she met her husband while working on the film Beetlejuice. He was the production designer for the movie, and Tim Burton actually introduced them!

Tim, who shares 22-year-old Billy and 18-year-old Nell with his ex-partner Helena Bonham Carter, wasn’t the only one from the actress’s famous group of friends to express their condolences. Macaulay Culkin, Tim’s Home Alone co-star, also shared a heartfelt message on social media mourning the loss.

Macaulay Culkin, the actor who played Kevin McCallister, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram after the passing of Catherine O’Hara, who played his mother in the ‘Home Alone’ movies. He wrote that he wished he’d had more time with her and regretted not being able to tell her everything he wanted to say. He expressed a desire to simply have sat with her and talked.

He finished by saying, “I love you. I’ll see you later,” and then added in a comment, “I’m really excited about this…”

For more stars who have paid tribute to Catherine’s life, read on…

It was a true joy to work alongside Catherine O’Hara for so many years – her talent was incredible. After spending over fifty years working with my dad, Catherine felt like family even 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 the entire family.

This goes all the way back to 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 wished I could have spent more time with you, just sitting and talking. I had so much left to tell you, even though I said I love you. I’ll see you again someday.

I’m truly at a loss for words. I told O’Hara when we first met that I thought 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, kind, insightful, and incredibly generous. She pushed me to make our show the best it could be, worthy of her talent. This is heartbreaking, and we were all so fortunate to have her in our lives.

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

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

She was more than just a famous artist, actor, and comedian. She truly represented the best of Canada – she was incredibly talented, brave, uniquely herself, and deeply compassionate. She brought joy to people around the world, and also had a gift for making them feel understood.

She was a huge inspiration to me as an artist. She showed me how to represent your country with both skill and kindness, always remaining down-to-earth and humble.

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

It’s okay to feel sad about this loss, and please know that you’re not going through it by yourself. 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 truly inspired me, influenced my sense of humor, and helped me understand our work. I always felt she was the best of the best. I’m sure many actors said similar things, but she always listened with grace, kindness, and a wonderful sense of humor, as if hearing it for the first time. I want to thank Jason Reitman for letting me participate in the Film Independent LACMA reading where I got to work with and witness her brilliance firsthand. Being around her and watching her work was incredible, and I’ll cherish those moments forever. Both during that reading and on the set of Away We Go, she was exceptionally kind to everyone, from the director to the production assistants. She truly lit up a room – she was radiant, almost otherworldly. Her talent was unique; there was, and will never be, anyone 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 incredibly beautiful, both inside and out, and possessed a remarkable spirit. Her work radiated her deep love for people, and she was uniquely treasured for her integrity, clear thinking, and wisdom. It’s easy to imagine her now with other great minds, sharing her incredible insights. Here on earth, we’re heartbroken by her loss, especially at a time when we needed her so much. Rest peacefully, dear friend.

Catherine O’Hara was a genuinely kind and honest person, and that shone through in everything she did – her work, her personal life, and her family. Our hearts go out to Bo, Luke, and Matthew. We hope she finds peace, and that her memory lives 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 forever thankful. The world feels a little dimmer now that you’re gone, but it will always cherish your memory. You were one of a kind, Catherine O’Hara.

I honestly never imagined I’d have the chance to work with Catherine O’Hara, and certainly not to become friends with her. I’m heartbroken that she’s gone, but so thankful for the time we shared. Thank you, Catherine – 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.”

I’m still in shock and can’t accept that she’s gone. It’s incredibly painful to think about losing 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 into our lives, 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, and it’s safe to say she was loved by many.

This news is devastating. She was a truly wonderful person, a gifted 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 shock.

It’s a huge loss. She was incredibly talented, graceful, and genuinely humble – a natural performer. She brought so much joy to everyone and will be deeply missed. She was a true inspiration, especially for anyone who enjoys comedy, and always delivered a flawless performance.

Catherine O’Hara, a cherished Canadian comedian and actress, brought laughter to audiences of all ages. From her early work on SCTV and in films like Home Alone, to her iconic portrayal of Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek, she had a special talent for both comedy and touching performances. She also played a significant role in sharing Canadian stories with the world. Our hearts go out to her family, friends, and fans.

“BEST OF THE BEST IN SHOW!”

“Legend.”

“Ugggg legend. No one funnier.”

“Nooo my most profound condolences.”

She was truly inspiring. Her comedy brought so much joy to everyone who watched her, and she had a wonderful, radiant personality. May she rest in peace.

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2026-01-31 19:49