From the minute television’s Moira Rose entered the screen, shrieking on top of her lungs and announcing herself with operatic conviction, I knew Schitt’s Creek was going to be a blast. She is an eccentric, larger-than-life character who anchors the Rose family and the entire series. She unapologetically demands what she deserves, takes up space (even literally, thanks to her extravagant, voluminous outfits and wigs), and teaches us that flair and audacity are self-respect.
Legendary actor Catherine O’Hara died on January 30, aged 71. From Home Alone to Schitt’s Creek and beyond, she brought a distinctive edge to all her work. Her brilliance and comedic genius are unparalleled.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tibJemuVBKs
O’Hara’s demise feels like a personal loss. Just days ago, I finished rewatching (probably my 100th time) Schitt’s Creek, mouthing along to Moira’s iconic dialogues.
Schitt’s Creek would not have been Schitt’s Creek without Moira Rose‘s theatrical and often-annoying antics. Here’s to the woman who taught us resplendent style, better vocabulary, and to never settle for less.
The Ever-Iconic Moira Rose
Unlike her family, Moira Rose remains largely unattached to the town of Schitt’s Creek. Her only long-term commitment has been her position on the town council.
Moira had experienced small-town life growing up. Her reluctance to settle in Schitt’s Creek reflects her desire for independence, stability, and a life that matches her ambitions.
Women are often labelled as gold diggers just for seeking comfort or security. Moira broke that stereotype, showing that a woman can seek success, luxury, and autonomy without apology.
Moira is a grey character. Well, often leans more towards black (and not just because of her outfits). She is not the classic selfless, timid female character we usually see on screen.
She carries herself with often-undue confidence, making her presence felt everywhere, and cleverly navigating people and situations to get her way. I, personally, have learned a lot from her.
Moira Rose taught me that it is okay to have an opposing opinion. Moira Rose taught me that it is okay to be “selfish.” Moira Rose taught me that women are more than just someone’s wife, daughter, or mom.
Moira never let her gender or age get in the way of her dreams. Despite unsuccessful projects, tabloid noise, and public scrutiny, she persists and reinvents herself with audacity.
No project is too small or too overambitious for Moira. Whether it is a Primetime Emmy-nominated soap opera or an ad for a small-town winery, she approaches each one with the same confidence.
It isn’t that she did not have humbling moments. She has had her fair share of throwing fits and curling up inside a dark closet. But she always stands back up, dons a loud wig, and gets ready for her next challenge.
Moira Rose is more than a character; she is a case study in ambition and resilience. Through her, Catherine O’Hara showed us a compelling balance of strength and vulnerability.
She leaves behind a legacy that continues to inspire laughter, admiration, and the courage to embrace our own eccentricities. You will be deeply missed, icon.
STP Fixations is a series dedicated to anything and everything that captures our attention – a scene, anecdote, dialogue, character or a trivial, random bizarreness. A fixation over a memory that sometimes makes sense (or sometimes doesn’t) but is stuck in our hearts and minds long after the moment is over.
Views expressed by the author are their own.
