Catherine O'Hara & Rob Reiner's Emmy tribute shatters hearts—fans gasp

The Primetime Emmy Awards’ In Memoriam segment, which aired Monday night, opened and closed a ten‑minute tribute with heartfelt dedications to the late comedian Catherine O’Hara and the late director‑actor Rob Reiner.

The ceremony’s music featured Noah Kahan performing Paul Simon’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” as the reel of television figures who passed in the last year played.

O’Hara, 71, died in January, and Reiner was killed along with his wife Michelle by their son Nick last December. The segment also showcased a roster of other TV icons—including director James Burrows, actors Louise Lasser, Vincent Pastore and Anthony Geary—and fashion designer Bob Mackie, who passed mere hours before the broadcast.

**Background & Context**

The In Memoriam portion is a staple of the Emmy telecast, dedicating ten minutes to honor those who shaped television in the previous year. The ceremony bookended that time with tributes to Catherine O’Hara and Rob Reiner, highlighting their enduring impact on comedy and film.

As the reel rolled, viewers were reminded of the breadth of talent lost, from legendary directors to beloved actors.

Macaulay Culkin, Annie Murphy and Dan Levy joined O’Hara’s Schitt’s Creek co‑stars in the opening section. The segment also included a quick note that the Television Academy strives to post a longer list on its website, a move that often stirs online debate over omissions.

Social media chatter this year focused on names such as Chuck Norris and Nicholas Brendan, whose exclusion prompted comments from fans.

**What People Are Saying**

Culkin’s appearance was emotional; he reflected on playing the son of O’Hara’s character in “Home Alone” and recalled their interactions. He said, “By extension, she’s all of our moms,” he said. “She always showed up.

That’s just what she did. And this is the best we can do for her tonight. We’re showing up for her.” Culkin added, “She may have forgotten me – twice – but we will always remember her.”

Jamie Lee Curtis delivered a tearful tribute to Reiner, noting his recent Emmy win for Guest Actor in a Comedy Series on *The Bear*. She referenced the record gap between his acting Emmys—48 years, surpassing Carl Reiner’s 37‑year span.

Curtis praised Burrows’ legacy, saying he “set a standard of comedy directing that will be cherished and studied for generations to come.” She closed with, “Sadly, last year, we lost another cherished legend, our beloved Meathead, Rob Reiner. He was generous and kind, and funny as hell. And a friend to all.

We all miss Rob and Michelle. And all those we lost this year.”

Dan Levy highlighted the lesson he learned from O’Hara, stating, “Say yes. … It will amaze you on a daily basis and it will change your life.” His comments echoed the collaborative spirit that defined *Schitt’s Creek* and O’Hara’s broader career.

**What Happens Next**

Following the televised tribute, the Television Academy typically updates its website with an expanded list of honorees, giving fans a more comprehensive view of those honored. The online roster often includes figures who did not appear in the broadcast, a practice that can spark discussions about inclusion and recognition.

While the Emmy network’s selection process is not publicized in detail, the Academy’s commitment to broader acknowledgment is evident in the extended website list.

Fans and critics alike continue to discuss the segment’s selections on social media, debating which personalities were omitted and why. The conversation underscores the challenges of commemorating a year’s worth of talent within a limited broadcast window.

The Academy remains open to feedback, but the final televised lineup reflects a curated snapshot of television’s most influential figures.

In closing, the In Memoriam segment served as both a respectful nod to past luminaries and a reminder of the ever‑evolving landscape of television entertainment.