O'Hara's Tribute to Candy: A Fond Farewell

Catherine O'Hara delivered a moving tribute to her late friend John Candy on March 18, 1994, at St. Basil's Church in Toronto. Candy, who had passed away the previous month after a heart attack, was remembered by O'Hara with the characteristic wit and candor she was known for. Their long-standing friendship began when O'Hara auditioned for Second City in 1974, leading to shared experiences on SCTV and later in the film Home Alone, released in November 1990.

O'Hara recalled Candy's immense generosity, noting how he would always engage with fans and offer encouragement. She described their shared moments, including traveling to Chicago for Second City and collaborating on SCTV's memorable opening credits. His dedication to every role, whether big or small, was a testament to his passion for performing. O'Hara mentioned the poignant detail that Candy's passing occurred on her birthday, March 4.

Reflecting on Candy's broader significance, O'Hara emphasized his strong principles and protective nature. She described him as someone who deeply cared and would go to great lengths to right wrongs, making others feel valued. For O'Hara, Candy's extensive filmography served as a sanctuary from life's difficulties. She concluded by calling him "the patron saint of laughter," expressing her deep sense of loss while treasuring his impactful life and legacy.