Reaction floods in after death of legendary Canadian actress Catherine O'Hara

worker Catherine john henry o'hara deadened at 71

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Prime Minister Mark Carney offered up his condolences with a post on X, saying he joins fans worldwide in mourning O'Hara's death.

"Over five decades of work, Catherine earned her place in the canon of Canadian comedy — from the iconic Toronto production of Godspell to SCTV to Schitt's Creek," Carney wrote.

"Canada has lost a legend. My thoughts are with her family, friends, and all those who loved her work on screen. She will be dearly missed."

"It is a very sad day for comedy and for Canada," said Canadian comedian Mike Myers in a written statement provided to The Associated Press.

"She was one of the greatest comedy artists in history, an inspiration for millions and above all a very elegant lady."

O'Hara "brought love and light to our world, through whipsmart compassion for the collection of eccentrics she portrayed," Hollywood legend Meryl Streep said in a statement to The Associated Press.

"Such a loss for her family and friends, and the audience she graced as friends."

Streep and O'Hara were both in the 1986 film Heartburn.

"Heartbroken doesn't even begin to cover it,” Canadian crooner Michael Bublé said in a post on X.

"She set the bar for what it means to represent your country with excellence and grace and all without ever losing warmth or humility."

Bublé went on to say that O'Hara inspired him immensely.

"She set the bar for what it means to represent your country with excellence and grace and all without ever losing warmth or humility."

Heartbroken doesn’t even begin to cover it.<br><br>Catherine O’Hara was one of a kind. A rare light in this world and her passing hits with a weight I can’t fully put into words.<br><br>She wasn’t just a legendary artist,<br>actor and comedian. She was an ambassador for Canada in the truest… <a href="https://t.co/06jGk7OyCP">pic.twitter.com/06jGk7OyCP</a>

More reaction from Canada, this time from former prime minister Justin Trudeau.

"From SCTV to Home Alone to her unforgettable role as Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek, Catherine O’Hara was a beloved Canadian icon with a rare gift for comedy and heart," Trudeau wrote in a post to X, which also included a photo of him with O'Hara at an event.

"She made people laugh across generations and helped bring Canadian storytelling to the world in a way only she could."

From SCTV to Home Alone to her unforgettable role as Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek, Catherine O’Hara was a beloved Canadian icon with a rare gift for comedy and heart. She made people laugh across generations and helped bring Canadian storytelling to the world in a way only she… <a href="https://t.co/tO72Xy3yqp">pic.twitter.com/tO72Xy3yqp</a>

Catherine O'Hara gets serious about comedy

Catherine O'Hara, cast member of the hit series SCTV, talks to Canada After Dark host Paul Soles in 1978 about her start in the comedy business.

"I want to be known as a funny person," she told Canada After Dark host Paul Soles. "I guess I'd like to do comedy-drama, a mixture."

It’s tough to think of a Canadian actor who has left more of an imprint than Catherine O’Hara. She received the Order of Canada in 2018 and a lifetime achievement award from the Governor General's Performing Arts Awards in 2021.

Following news of her death, the Canadian Academy posted, “Our hearts are broken.”

“Catherine O’Hara was not just a comedic powerhouse, she was a true creative force who has left an indelible mark on our culture,” the post said.

“She was equal parts humour, heart, and humanity and we will continue to celebrate her and her work for years to come. What an immense loss for our industry. She will be so deeply missed.

“A true icon, indeed.”

In an Instagram tribute, the legendary comedic actress Lily Tomlin called O'Hara "bright, beautiful, and full of joy."

Andy Cohen, TV host and executive producer of the Real Housewives franchise, also posted a tribute to O'Hara on Instagram.

"Fell in love at first sight on SCTV and it only got stronger. Rest In Peace, Angel Catherine O’Hara," Cohen wrote.

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