Macaulay, Dan, Annie Lead Emotional Catherine O'Hara Tribute at Emmys

The 2026 Emmy Awards delivered a poignant moment as Macaulay Culkin, alongside "Schitt’s Creek" stars Dan Levy and Annie Murphy, took to the stage to honor the late, beloved actress Catherine O’Hara during the emotional "In Memoriam" segment.

O’Hara, who passed away at 71 in January, was remembered for her iconic roles, including Kate McCallister, Macaulay Culkin’s onscreen mother in "Home Alone," and the eccentric Moira Rose in "Schitt’s Creek," where she played mother to Levy’s David and Murphy’s Alexis.

Annie Murphy shared touching anecdotes illustrating O'Hara's profound impact on her fans.

She recounted receiving a note on an Air Canada flight, being hugged by a grieving gas station attendant, and hearing a lively O'Hara mashup while buying wine. Murphy emphasized that these were just a few instances that highlighted "how profoundly Catherine has impacted the world, and it's because she brought joy."

Dan Levy, reflecting on his time working with O’Hara, spoke about the most significant lesson she imparted: "always say yes." He encouraged saying yes to her instincts, no matter how radical, acknowledging her foresight. Levy detailed how O’Hara fearlessly developed the character of Moira Rose, a woman over 60 in leather miniskirts and 8-inch heels, speaking in a unique transatlantic accent, proving that authenticity would not scare audiences away.

Levy also recalled O'Hara's thoughtful script rewrites, often emailed the night before, which always improved the story. He urged others to "say yes to the concept of a wig ball," to her wearing a wig as a hat, and to giving her the creative space to experiment. "It will amaze you on a daily basis and it will change your life," he remarked, adding that her dinner invites, stories, wisdom, and generosity were treasures to hold onto.

"Always say yes to any opportunity to revel in the presence of greatness."

Following O'Hara's passing, both Levy and Murphy had shared heartfelt tributes. Levy posted on Instagram, cherishing the "warm glow of Catherine O'Hara's brilliance," while Murphy remembered her vibrant laugh, a perpetual "Yes, And..." that challenged everyone to join in her delight. The collective tributes at the Emmys underscored the lasting legacy of an actress who truly brought joy and brilliance to the screens and lives of many.

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