Catherine O’Hara Honored Posthumously at 2026 Actor Awards

Catherine O’Hara received a heartfelt tribute at the 2026 Actor Awards, celebrated posthumously just a month after her passing. The distinguished Canadian comedian and actor, who died on January 30, 2026, from a pulmonary embolism, was awarded best female actor in a comedy series for her role in The Studio. The ceremony took place at the Shine Auditorium in Los Angeles, where the audience erupted in a standing ovation upon her name being announced.

Fellow Canadian and co-creator of The Studio, Seth Rogen, accepted the award on her behalf. In an emotional speech, Rogen expressed the profound impact O’Hara had on those who worked with her. “I was asked to assume the very sad honour of accepting this award on O’Hara’s behalf,” he began. He reflected on her generous spirit, kindness, and formidable talent, stating, “She knew she could destroy, and she wanted to destroy every day on set.”

Rogen urged the audience to introduce O’Hara’s work to those unfamiliar with it, highlighting memorable moments from her performances in projects like Beetlejuice and Best in Show. He concluded by acknowledging the immense gift her talents were to the world.

In addition to O’Hara’s individual accolade, The Studio won the award for best comedy series, while Rogen also secured the best actor in a comedy series award. O’Hara portrayed the character Patty Leigh in the series, contributing to its overall success and acclaim.

O’Hara’s win marked a significant moment in award history, as she became the first female actor to receive a posthumous Actor Award. Only two other actors have been honored similarly: Heath Ledger in 2009 for his performance as the Joker in The Dark Knight and Chadwick Boseman in 2021 for his portrayal in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.

Details surrounding O’Hara’s death emerged following her passing, revealing that she died from a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer identified as an underlying cause, according to her death certificate obtained from the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office. O’Hara passed away at a hospital in Santa Monica, California, and her body was cremated.

A veteran of the entertainment industry, O’Hara began her career with the Second City comedy group in Toronto during the 1970s. There, she forged a lasting partnership with Eugene Levy, who would join her in the acclaimed sketch show SCTV. The series, which began broadcasting in Canada and later aired on NBC in the United States, featured a legendary roster of comedians, including Martin Short, John Candy, and Rick Moranis.

O’Hara won her first Emmy for writing on SCTV and later secured a second for her role as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek, a series that dominated the Emmys in 2020 during its final season. The show, created by Levy and his son Dan Levy, depicted a wealthy family forced to adapt to life in a small town, showcasing O’Hara’s exceptional comedic talents.

As the entertainment community mourns her loss, O’Hara’s legacy continues to shine through her remarkable body of work and the lasting influence she had on many performers.