Catherine O'Hara's Passing: Official Cause of Death Revealed
Catherine O’Hara’s cause of death has been officially confirmed by officials and media sources, putting an end to the speculation surrounding her passing. The beloved actress passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 71, following a brief illness. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office revealed that the cause of death was a pulmonary embolism, with rectal cancer listed as the underlying cause.
Reports indicate that O’Hara had been undergoing treatment for rectal cancer since March 2025. Her last public appearance was at the 2025 Emmy Awards in September, where she was nominated for her roles in The Studio and The Last of Us. O’Hara had withdrawn from public events in the weeks leading up to her passing, missing the 2026 Golden Globes where she was also nominated.
The actress had previously disclosed her rare medical condition of dextrocardia with situs inversus, where her heart and organs were positioned on the opposite side of her body. Despite her health challenges, O’Hara maintained a positive outlook on aging, emphasizing the joy of being alive at 70. Tributes poured in from colleagues and friends in the entertainment industry, with Macaulay Culkin, Dan Levy, Seth Rogen, and Michael Keaton expressing their love and admiration for her.
Catherine O’Hara’s legacy as a talented actress and beloved personality will continue to resonate with fans and peers alike, as her contributions to the entertainment industry leave an indelible mark.