Catherine O'Hara's Death Certificate Reveals Pulmonary Embolism After Cancer Battle
Catherine O'Hara's Cause of Death Confirmed

Catherine O'Hara's Cause of Death Officially Confirmed

The entertainment world has received official confirmation regarding the passing of the acclaimed actress Catherine O'Hara. The 70-year-old star, celebrated for her memorable performances in Schitt's Creek, Home Alone, and Beetlejuice, died on January 30 after developing a pulmonary embolism, which is a blood clot in the lung. This medical complication occurred following her battle with rectal cancer, as detailed in her death certificate.

Details from the Death Certificate and Emergency Response

According to official documents, O'Hara was cremated after her death, with her ashes entrusted to her husband, Bo Welch. The Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a medical aid call at her home in Los Angeles at 4:48 am on the day of her passing. They transported a woman in her 70s, described as being in serious condition, to medical facilities. Initially, representatives from her talent agency, CAA, stated that she died "following a brief illness," but the death certificate has now provided more specific details.

O'Hara's Health History and Personal Reflections

Before her untimely death, Catherine O'Hara had spoken publicly about a rare, non-life-threatening heart condition known as cardiac inversus, where her heart and other organs were positioned on the opposite side of her body compared to most people. She humorously referred to herself as "a freak" and mentioned that she discovered this condition later in life due to her reluctance to visit doctors. O'Hara expressed a fondness for Western medicine but admitted, "I just don't want to be part of it." It is important to note that there are no indications this heart condition played a role in her death.

Tributes from Fans and Co-Stars

Following the news of her passing, an outpouring of grief emerged from fans and fellow celebrities. Macaulay Culkin, who portrayed her son Kevin in Home Alone, shared a heartfelt tribute, saying, "Mama. I thought we had time. I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you. But I had so much to say. I love you. I’ll see you later." This emotional message highlights the deep connections she forged throughout her illustrious career.