Catherine O’Hara dies at 71: Who is Schitt’s Creek actress’ husband Bo Welch? All you need to know about their love story and family

Canadian actress Catherine O’Hara, known for her sharp wit and unforgettable screen presence, has passed away at the age of 71. The news was first reported by TMZ and later confirmed by her manager on January 30. While the cause of death has not been made public, tributes have poured in from fans and colleagues remembering her as one of the most distinctive performers in comedy and film.

Over a career spanning decades, the icon became a familiar face across generations. She earned global recognition through films such as Home Alone and Beetlejuice, and later found renewed popularity with her Emmy-winning role as Moira Rose in Schitt’s Creek. Yet, away from the spotlight, O’Hara often spoke about a quieter life that mattered just as much to her, one built around family.

All you need to know about Catherine O'Hara and her family

Born on March 4, 1954, in Toronto, Catherine was the second-youngest of seven children. Her father worked with the Canadian Pacific Railway, while her mother was a real estate agent. Her first brush with acting came early, when she played the Virgin Mary in a school Nativity play. After high school, she joined Toronto’s Second City Theatre, initially working as a waitress before finding her footing as a performer. That space became the foundation of her comedy career.



While her professional achievements were many, she frequently said that being a wife and mother was her most fulfilling role. She married Bo Welch, a highly respected production designer in Hollywood, in 1992. Welch is best known for shaping the visual style of films such as Edward Scissorhands, Men in Black, Batman Returns and Thor. His work earned him Oscar nominations and a reputation for imaginative world-building.

Their love story began on the set of Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice in 1988. O’Hara played the eccentric Delia Deetz, while Welch was responsible for designing the film’s surreal sets. In later interviews, the actress admitted she developed a quiet crush on Welch but was too shy to act on it. She once shared that director Tim Burton noticed the situation and nudged Welch to finally ask her out, setting their relationship in motion.

In a 2019 interview with The New Yorker, Catherine revealed that she moved to Los Angeles for Welch, saying she followed her instincts and chose love. The couple went on to welcome two sons, Matthew in 1994 and Luke in 1997. Despite their high-profile careers, they kept their family life largely private.


O’Hara occasionally shared glimpses of that life. She revealed that both her sons worked behind the scenes on Schitt’s Creek, and in 2024, she mentioned that one of them was part of the crew on HBO’s The Last of Us. Their relationship was often described as playful and deeply supportive. During her virtual Golden Globes win in 2021, Bo Welch sat beside her and jokingly played wrap-up music from his phone, a moment that quickly went viral.

Catherine O’Hara often credited her parents for teaching her the value of humour and warmth, qualities she carried into her own home. As fans mourn her passing, she is remembered not just for iconic roles, but for a life filled with laughter, love and lasting partnerships.