Seth Rogen Honors Catherine O’Hara at 2026 Actor Awards
The 2026 Actor Awards celebrated the outstanding performances of the previous year, with a special tribute to Catherine O’Hara. The beloved actress won the Best Actress in a Comedy Series award for her role in the show “The Studio.” Following her passing weeks prior, co-creator Seth Rogen accepted the award on her behalf.
Seth Rogen’s Tribute to Catherine O’Hara
During the ceremony, Rogen expressed his admiration for O’Hara. “I was asked to assume the honor of accepting this award on O’Hara’s behalf,” he told the audience. He highlighted her respect for her fellow actors and her enduring influence on everyone she worked with.
Reflecting on her kindness and talent, Rogen said, “She knew she could destroy, and she wanted to destroy every day on set.” He recalled O’Hara’s impressive ability to enhance their scripts, noting she often sent him and co-creator Evan Goldberg revised scene suggestions that improved their show.
- O’Hara starred as movie executive Patty Leigh in “The Studio.”
- Rogen revealed, “Every evening before she had a shooting day, she would email me and Evan,” sharing improvements for her scenes.
- He praised O’Hara’s combination of genius and kindness, emphasizing they coexisted without conflict.
Celebrating O’Hara’s Legacy
Rogen encouraged others to share her work with those unfamiliar with her talent. “Show them O’Hara dancing to Harry Belafonte in ‘Beetlejuice’… and tell them that’s Catherine O’Hara,” he urged.
Emotions ran high during Rogen’s speech, with actress Jenna Ortega, who co-starred with O’Hara in “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” visibly moved. O’Hara passed away on January 30, 2026, at 71 years old due to a pulmonary embolism and complications from rectal cancer.
The Studio’s Response
After the news of O’Hara’s death, her colleagues from “The Studio” released a heartfelt statement. They expressed their disbelief and shared their admiration for her character and humor. The statement also emphasized O’Hara’s warm presence and professionalism:
