Devin Ratray, who memorably played Buzz McCallister in “Home Alone,” is remembering his on-screen mother Catherine O’Hara with a moving tribute following news of her passing.
The actor shared his grief in a heartfelt Instagram post, honoring the woman who portrayed Kate McCallister in the beloved holiday classic and its 1992 sequel.
“One of the greatest people I ever met,” Ratray wrote. “It just doesn’t register. Bewildered and numb.”
In addition to his message, he shared a photo of the two from years ago.
’Home Alone’ Is a Beloved Classic
His words echoed the shock felt by fans and collaborators alike as tributes poured in for O’Hara, whose warmth, humor, and generosity made her a defining presence both on screen and behind the scenes.
Ratray’s message struck a particular chord with “Home Alone” fans, who have long associated O’Hara with the fierce, funny, and loving mom who crossed continents to get back to her son.
As Buzz, Ratray played Kevin McCallister’s brash older brother, often the source of sibling chaos — a dynamic that O’Hara navigated with pitch-perfect comedic timing and real emotional grounding.
Those who worked on the films have often spoken about O’Hara’s kindness on set, especially toward the younger cast.
Released in 1990, “Home Alone” became a cultural phenomenon, turning its cast into household names and cementing O’Hara as one of the great screen moms of her generation.
She reprised the role in “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York,” further solidifying the McCallister family as a pop-culture staple.
Decades later, the films remain a holiday tradition, with O’Hara’s performance still drawing praise for balancing slapstick comedy with heartfelt urgency.
Ratray’s tribute joins messages from fellow cast members and collaborators who have shared stories of O’Hara’s humor, professionalism, and generosity.
Tributes Pour In
Many have noted how she elevated every project she touched — from sketch comedy and film to television — while remaining deeply grounded and approachable.
Macaulay Culkin shared a heartbreaking post where he spoke about his onscreen mom.
“Mama. I thought we had time,” he began. “I wanted more. I wanted to sit in a chair next to you. I heard you but I had so much more to say.”
As tributes continue to surface, Ratray’s stands out for its quiet honesty — a reminder that Catherine O’Hara’s greatest legacy may be the kindness she showed, and the lasting impact she had on the people lucky enough to work alongside her.
