Jenna Ortega has publicly honoured her Beetlejuice Beetlejuice co-star Catherine O'Hara, describing the late actress as 'one of the greats' in a moving social media tribute. The 24-year-old star took to Instagram on Sunday to express her admiration and grief following O'Hara's passing on Friday at the age of 71 after a short illness.
Ortega's Heartfelt Instagram Message
In her post, Ortega wrote: 'Catherine is one of the most beautiful people I've ever had the honour of getting to work with and know. I'll forever cherish the time we shared together, and everything she taught me.' She added: 'A giant, an inspiration in many ways. One of the greats. Thank you so much for it all.' This tribute highlights the deep personal and professional bond formed during their collaboration on the 2024 movie.
Widespread Celebrity Tributes Pour In
Ortega's message is part of a wave of condolences from Hollywood stars who worked with O'Hara. Macaulay Culkin, who played her on-screen son in Home Alone, posted two throwback photos on Instagram with the caption: '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.'
Eugene Levy, O'Hara's long-time collaborator from Schitt's Creek and SCTV, stated in a release to Us Weekly: 'Words seem inadequate to express the loss I feel today. I had the honour of knowing and working with the great Catherine O'Hara for over fifty years.' He reflected on their journey from Second City to their acclaimed television series, emphasising their cherished friendship.
Seth Rogen's Inspirational Memories
Seth Rogen, who worked with O'Hara on his TV comedy The Studio, shared on Instagram: 'Really don't know what to say… I told O'Hara when I first met her I thought she was the funniest person I'd ever had the pleasure of watching on screen. Home Alone was the movie that made me want to make movies. Getting to work with her was a true honour.' He praised her as hysterical, kind, and generous, noting how she motivated him to elevate his work.
Levy also extended his condolences to O'Hara's husband Bo Welch and their sons Matthew and Luke, saying: 'And I will miss her. My heart goes out to Bo, Matthew, Luke, and the entire O'Hara family.' These tributes collectively paint a picture of O'Hara as a beloved figure whose influence spanned generations in the entertainment industry.
