At the 2026 Grammy Awards, actress and singer Rita Wilson shared heartfelt reflections on the recent passing of her friend, the celebrated actress and comedian Catherine O’Hara.
Speaking on the red carpet, Wilson emphasized O’Hara’s profound legacy, noting that her remarkable talent as a performer was matched by her dedication as a parent and a friend. “She was an extraordinary person,” Wilson stated. “The joy and laughter she brought to the world through her work will continue to resonate.”
O’Hara, known for her iconic roles in film and television, died at her Los Angeles home on January 30 after a short illness. Her representatives confirmed the news late last week.
Wilson had previously paid tribute on social media, praising O’Hara’s authenticity. “Her integrity shone through in everything she did—in her artistry, in her life, and in the family she cherished,” she wrote, extending condolences to O’Hara’s children.
Attending the Grammys with her granddaughter, Olivia Hanks, Wilson also spoke briefly about the importance of family. She has often mentioned the joy she finds in spending active, playful time with her grandchildren.
O’Hara’s final public appearance was last September at the Emmy Awards, where she received two nominations. Her decades-long career left an indelible mark on comedy and entertainment, a legacy that colleagues and fans continue to celebrate.