Michael Keaton Remembers Working With Catherine O’Hara: ‘Like Breathing Rarefied Air’

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It was Oscar night two years ago, and my colleague Catherine O’Hara and I were backstage trying to come up with a funny way to walk on stage and present the award. We only had a few minutes to plan!

She suggested a plan: when they’re introduced, he should quickly leave without waiting for her, and she’ll call out, ‘Hey, wait!’

“Yeah. I like it. Let’s do that,” I say.

Ladies and gentlemen, here to present…

We enter. Do the bit. Crickets—mostly.

I still think about that moment and feel like I disappointed her. I keep questioning if I presented it well enough – was I not enthusiastic enough, or maybe too honest? I even mentally rehearse the conversation, trying to figure out what I could have done differently.

I usually forget jokes quickly, but not when she told them. It wasn’t about the humor itself; I was just really falling for her. I felt incredibly lucky to have worked with Catherine, not just at the awards show, but on projects like Beetlejuice, The Paper, and Game 6 over almost four decades – it was a truly special experience. And the time we spent chatting between takes was fantastic. Even better, though, was getting to spend time with her outside of work – in real life, as I like to say.

When she spoke to you, she truly connected. She gave you her full attention when you shared a story, making direct eye contact and seeming completely engaged. It was something special – a spark, a warmth, a certain glow – I can’t quite explain it.

To make her laugh was such a joy.

We loosely talked about getting together in January. She and her husband, Bo, were supposed to come over for dinner, and I’m still hoping that might happen.

After she unexpectedly passed away at age 71 on January 30th, I did my best to avoid seeing videos of her. But I was suddenly surprised by one that appeared, and I couldn’t look away. Watching it made me feel sad, so I turned off the lights and went to sleep.

About four minutes later, I woke myself up to the sound of laughing. It was me.

I smiled and fell asleep.

Let me tell you, having a female friend is wonderful. But having one who’s genuinely hilarious? That’s something else. And honestly, if you’re lucky enough to call Catherine O’Hara a friend, well, consider yourself incredibly blessed. She’s just that special – a true gift!

Catherine was truly exceptional among all the talented comedians, both those who came before and those working today. Her comedic timing was brilliant, and she was an even more wonderful person.

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2026-02-05 20:06