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Selick Mourns 'Nightmare' Star O'Hara
31 Jan
Summary
- Henry Selick directed Catherine O'Hara in 'The Nightmare Before Christmas'.
- O'Hara passed away at her Los Angeles home after a brief illness.
- Selick shared a poignant anecdote about O'Hara's wit during filming.
Director Henry Selick has paid a heartfelt tribute to Catherine O'Hara, the acclaimed actress who voiced Sally in his 1993 film 'The Nightmare Before Christmas.' O'Hara passed away at her Los Angeles home on Friday, January 31, 2026, at the age of 71, following a brief illness.
Selick, who first admired O'Hara from her work on the Canadian comedy show 'Second City TV,' described her as an "intimidating" talent – "so smart and attractive, a total pro who asked tough questions." He fondly recalled her clever retort when he requested more emotion in a scene: "Uh, exactly which emotion did you have in mind, Henry?"
Their collaboration on 'The Nightmare Before Christmas' was deeply valued by both. Years later, O'Hara reportedly told Selick she finally understood his process of multiple takes for character development. They reunited for a 3D re-release of the film and a planned animated project called 'The Shadow King' in 2011.
Despite the unfinished nature of 'The Shadow King' due to studio issues, Selick cherished their working relationship. He remembered O'Hara's vibrant personality, even sharing a favorite photo of her laughing. He extended deepest condolences to her family, including husband Bo Welch and their sons.
