In a recent interview in Toronto, Dan Levy, the creator and star of "Schitt's Creek," shared heartfelt reflections on his late co-star Catherine O'Hara. O'Hara, who passed away on January 30 at the age of 71 due to a pulmonary embolism linked to underlying rectal cancer, was celebrated for her unique comedic talent that Levy believes cannot be replicated.
Levy, who worked alongside O'Hara for six seasons on "Schitt's Creek," noted that the character Moira Rose was specifically crafted for her. He expressed profound admiration for her ability to bring joy and laughter to audiences, stating, "To work with her was to see it up close and to understand it and to learn from it." He described O'Hara as an "icon" and a "legend," emphasizing that her contributions to comedy were deeply significant and distinct.
Reflecting on their time together, Levy mentioned the cultural vocabulary around terms like "icon" and "legend" and how they can often feel overused. However, in O'Hara's case, he felt it was an observation based on her extensive career. He articulated, "Everything that she has done throughout the course of her career has been something that no one else can replicate," reinforcing her unique legacy in the entertainment industry.
The success of "Schitt's Creek" was a testament to O'Hara's talent and the collaborative spirit of the cast and crew. The show gained international acclaim, notably sweeping the comedy category at the 2020 Emmy Awards, winning a total of nine Emmys during its run. Levy suggested that O'Hara's passing represents a significant loss, but acknowledged that her body of work would continue to entertain and comfort those mourning her absence.
The interview also highlighted Levy's upcoming project, a Netflix dark comedy titled "Big Mistakes," which shares thematic elements with "Schitt's Creek" but introduces darker plotlines including blackmail and organized crime. This new endeavor is set to premiere on April 9, and Levy serves as the showrunner and executive producer, in addition to playing a lead role alongside Taylor Ortega and Laurie Metcalf. The show's narrative also incorporates themes of loss, resonating with Levy's reflections on O'Hara's legacy.
Eugene Levy, Dan's father, also collaborated with O'Hara throughout their illustrious careers, starting from their time at "SCTV" to films like "A Mighty Wind" and "Best in Show." Dan noted the resurgence of interest in "Best in Show" following O'Hara's death, with the mockumentary about competitive dog owners gaining renewed attention on streaming platforms. This trend underscored the profound impact O'Hara had on audiences and the entertainment community alike.
In closing, Dan Levy expressed his ongoing struggle with the loss of O'Hara, stating, "You've lost someone very close and very special." He recognized the challenge of navigating grief while celebrating the joy and laughter she brought to countless individuals through her work. Despite the sadness of her departure, Levy remains committed to keeping her legacy alive through storytelling and continued appreciation for her artistic contributions.
