Inspirational 25+ Catherine O'hara Family. Comedian catherine o'hara has appeared in dozens of movies and television projects, but may be best known for her role as the harried mother in the home alone movies of the early 1990s. Canadian actress, writer, and comedian, catherine o'hara gained recognition as one of the original cast members on the canadian television sketch comedy show second city tv (1976). She is the recipient of several accolades, including a genie award.