SNL Honors Catherine O’Hara After Her Death
SNL Honors Catherine O’Hara After Her Death
Catherine O’Hara, famed for SNL and SCTV, dies at 71. A Jan. 31 tribute on SNL honors her trailblazing comedy and one-week SNL stint.
Catherine O’Hara, the legendary Canadian actress known for SCTV and a string of iconic screen roles, died on Jan. 30 at age 71 after a brief illness. News of her passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow comedians who celebrated a career that helped shape modern comedy.
On Jan. 31, Saturday Night Live aired a heartfelt tribute card onscreen just before curtain call, honoring her impact on the show and on television comedy as a whole. The episode was hosted by Alexander Skarsgård with Cardi B as the musical guest, marking a moment of reflection amid the laughter.
O’Hara briefly joined SNL as a cast member during season 6, but she left after one week to continue performing with the Canadian sketch show SCTV. She would later revisit SNL for cameos, including an October 1998 appearance, and hosted episodes in April 1991 and October 1992, long after she had departed the cast.
The tributes extended beyond New York, with Steve Martin and Martin Short pausing their Austin, Texas, show to toast her, calling her “the greatest, most brilliant, kindest, sweetest angel” and raising a glass to her memory. The moment underscored how deeply she influenced generations of comedians and fans alike.
O’Hara’s career spanned decades in film and television, earning admiration for sharp timing, warmth, and fearless boundary-pushing. Her work on SCTV and beyond remains a touchstone for humor lovers, and her legacy endures through the many roles she defined and the laughter she inspired.
As tributes continue to roll in, fans and peers alike celebrate a life of laughter and lasting impact. Catherine O’Hara’s comedic genius will be remembered as a cornerstone of a beloved era in television and film.
