Actress Jenna Ortega shared a heartfelt tribute to Catherine O’Hara on Instagram, honoring the late performer as one of the most “beautiful people” she’s had the privilege of knowing and working with.
Ortega’s message — posted Sunday, February 1, shortly after news of O’Hara’s death at age 71 — reflects both admiration for her former co-star’s talent and deep gratitude for the personal impact she had on Ortega’s life and career.
Ortega’s Sweet Tribute
“Catherine is one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever had the honor of getting to work with and know,” Ortega wrote. “I’ll forever cherish the time we shared together, and everything she taught me. A giant and inspiration in so many ways. One of the greats. Thank you so much for it all.”
Her tribute encapsulated the respect and affection many in the entertainment community feel for O’Hara — a performer whose career spanned decades and whose influence touched multiple generations of actors.
The two worked together on “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.”
Ortega’s tribute resonated widely with fans and fellow performers, many of whom commented on social platforms to echo her sentiments.
The praise was not only for O’Hara’s extraordinary range as an actress, but also for her generosity and warmth as a mentor and colleague — qualities that enhanced every production she worked on and left lasting impressions on those lucky enough to collaborate with her.
Ortega’s tribute joins a growing chorus of appreciation from peers across the entertainment world.
Many have shared personal anecdotes about O’Hara’s kindness on set, her generosity in mentoring younger actors, and the way she uplifted everyone she worked with.
The Legacy of Catherine O’Hara
O’Hara’s career was marked by versatility and brilliance.
She first gained recognition in the 1970s as a key cast member of “Second City Television” (SCTV), where her comedic creativity and fearless character work set her apart.
From there, she moved seamlessly between comedic and dramatic roles in film and television, leaving indelible marks on audiences around the world.
She became a defining figure in “Beetlejuice” as Delia Deetz, showcased maternal depth and comic timing as Kate McCallister in “Home Alone” and its sequel, and captured hearts in stop-motion animation as the voice of Sally in “The Nightmare Before Christmas.”
Perhaps most recently, she achieved massive critical acclaim for her role as Moira Rose on “Schitt’s Creek,” earning Emmy, Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild Awards and introducing her to a new generation of fans.
O’Hara’s ability to move effortlessly between absurd comedy and poignant drama made her a rare talent in Hollywood — one who could make audiences laugh until they wept or sit in quiet reflection at the emotional truth beneath her performances.
