The entertainment world was struck by sad news on Friday as reports confirmed the passing of beloved actress Catherine O'Hara at the age of 71. Shortly after this announcement, her former Home Alone co-star Macaulay Culkin was spotted in the Los Angeles area, appearing visibly downcast during a solo outing.
A Somber Appearance
The 45-year-old former child star, who rose to fame as Kevin McCallister in the iconic holiday films, wore an orange sweater layered beneath a black sports coat, paired with black trousers and matching loafers. His subdued demeanor reflected the emotional weight of the day's news, coming just hours after O'Hara's death was publicly confirmed.
Tribute on Social Media
Culkin took to Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute to his on-screen mother, posting two photographs that captured their special bond. One image showed a still from their Home Alone days, while another featured a more recent picture taken at the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
His emotional caption read: '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 more to say. I love you. I'll see you later.' The poignant message underscored the deep connection that persisted between the actors long after their famous films wrapped production.
Catherine O'Hara's Legacy
O'Hara passed away at her Los Angeles home following what was described as a brief illness, though specific details regarding her cause of death have not been disclosed. The Canadian-American actress enjoyed a remarkable career spanning decades, earning particular acclaim for her role as Moira Rose on the hit television series Schitt's Creek, which earned her an Emmy Award in 2020.
More recently, she appeared as Patty Leigh in Apple TV+'s The Studio, demonstrating her continued relevance and versatility in the industry. However, for millions of fans worldwide, she would always be remembered as Kate McCallister, the frantic mother who accidentally left her son behind in the first two Home Alone films.
A Final Emotional Reunion
Culkin and O'Hara shared what would become their final public reunion just two years ago, in December 2023, when she introduced the actor at his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony. The occasion proved to be an emotional highlight for both performers, with O'Hara delivering a heartfelt speech that celebrated Culkin's enduring impact on popular culture.
'Home Alone was, is and always will be a beloved global sensation. The reason families all over the world can't let a year go by without watching and loving Home Alone together is because of Macaulay Culkin,' she told the assembled crowd. She went on to describe his performance in the 1990 blockbuster as 'perfect' and praised his natural acting ability.
Professional Praise and Personal Bond
During that memorable ceremony, O'Hara also commended Culkin's professionalism and unique comedic sensibility, noting that he consistently brings his 'sweet and twisted, yet totally relatable sense of humor to every project he does.' She concluded her remarks with characteristic wit, saying: 'And thank you for including me, your fake mom who left you home alone not once, but twice, to share in this happy occasion. I'm so proud of you.'
The significance of their reunion was not lost on Hollywood observers. Ana Martinez, producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, had previously expressed excitement about O'Hara's participation in Culkin's ceremony, stating in a press release: 'How fitting that Catherine O'Hara who played Macaulay's mother in the film is reuniting with her movie son and will be speaking at the ceremony!'
As tributes continue to pour in from colleagues and fans alike, Culkin's somber appearance in Los Angeles serves as a poignant reminder of the genuine bonds that can form between co-stars, transcending their on-screen relationships and creating lasting personal connections within the entertainment industry.
