Dan Levy Reflects on Catherine O'Hara's Legacy

Dan Levy has spoken about the “great comfort” he’s found in the public’s reaction to the passing of Catherine O’Hara, his co-star and on-screen mother in Schitt’s Creek. Levy, who played David Rose on the acclaimed series, discussed O’Hara’s death during a March 31st appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”

A Collective Loss

“It’s like a collective loss, I think,” Levy told Fallon. “She was the greatest. She’s irreplaceable, and I think the great comfort for me has just been to see how loved she was, you know what I mean? The outpouring. Everyone felt like they kind of knew her.”

Fallon Praises O'Hara's Talent

Jimmy Fallon agreed, stating, “She was one of the funniest comedians I’ve ever seen.” Levy added, “Unbelievably talented at improvising. One of the great, great, great, great queens.”

O'Hara's Career and Passing

Catherine O’Hara died in January at the age of 71 from a pulmonary embolism after battling rectal cancer. She was widely celebrated for her portrayal of Moira Rose on Schitt’s Creek, a character known for her eccentric personality and distinctive, ever-changing accent.

The Making of Moira's Accent

During a 2024 interview with TODAY’s Willie Geist, O’Hara explained the creation of Moira’s vocal style. “The accent was kind of up to me,” she said. “The accents, I should say. When people try to imitate that character, the mistake most people make is to be consistent.”

A Decorated Career

O’Hara was a highly decorated comedy icon, receiving 10 Emmy nominations and winning twice. Her wins included Best Actress in a Comedy Series for Schitt’s Creek and an award for her writing on SCTV Network.

Notable Roles

Throughout her career, O’Hara starred in numerous beloved films and television shows, including Home Alone, Best in Show, Beetlejuice, The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Last of Us, and Apple TV’s The Studio.

Posthumous Recognition

In March, O’Hara posthumously received an Actor Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series for her work on The Studio. Co-star Seth Rogen accepted the award on her behalf, praising her generosity and kindness alongside her exceptional talent. “She knew she could destroy, and she wanted to destroy every day on set,” Rogen said.