In a recent interview, actress Catherine O'Hara opened up about a terrifying incident involving her own children that gave her a newfound empathy for the characters in the iconic Home Alone movies. O'Hara, who famously portrayed Kevin McAllister's mother in the films, revealed how she and her husband, Bo Welch, once had a harrowing experience when their sons, Matthew and Luke, were left behind on a subway platform.
Reflecting on the incident, O'Hara shared her shock and fear as she and Welch realized their sons hadn't made it onto the train with them. Recounting the panic that ensued, O'Hara explained how she screamed for her kids, instantly grabbing the attention of fellow subway passengers who joined in her distress. Fortunately, the doors reopened just in time, allowing the boys to board the train safely. O'Hara admitted that the thought of what could have happened still haunts her to this day.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability parents face when it comes to keeping their children safe. O'Hara expressed the mixture of emotions that flooded her mind during those tense moments—wondering if her sons were okay and contemplating the next course of action. She emphasized the lack of cell phones at the time, making communication and immediate reunification incredibly challenging.
Despite this chilling experience, O'Hara fondly reminisced about her time working on the Home Alone movies, describing the experience as 'lovely.' She expressed her admiration for director Chris Columbus and screenwriter John Hughes, who crafted a perfect script for the films. O'Hara noted the wonderful cast and the warm atmosphere on set, highlighting the camaraderie amongst the child actors who portrayed the McAllister children.
The conversation also touched upon a recent reunion between O'Hara and Macaulay Culkin, who played her on-screen son, Kevin McAllister. During Culkin's induction ceremony for a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, O'Hara paid tribute to him, praising his enduring impact on audiences worldwide. She playfully alluded to her character's forgetfulness by jokingly thanking Culkin for including her, his 'fake mom who left him home alone not once but twice,' in the celebratory event.
Catherine O'Hara's personal encounter with a near-miss incident amplifies the resonance of the Home Alone movies. It serves as a reminder that even in the realm of fiction, such situations strike a chord with viewers because they touch on real fears and anxieties parents may experience. O'Hara's revelation adds depth to her portrayal of a concerned and frantic mother, showcasing her ability to draw from personal experiences to bring authenticity to her performances.
As fans of the Home Alone franchise, we appreciate O'Hara's candor and the genuine emotions she transmitted on-screen. The interview further underscores the impact the movies have had on audiences of all ages. Home Alone remains a beloved global sensation, with families making it a cherished tradition to watch and enjoy the films together every year. And as Catherine O'Hara rightly pointed out, Macaulay Culkin's portrayal of Kevin McAllister is a significant part of what makes these movies truly timeless.
To delve deeper into Catherine O'Hara's thoughts and insights, be sure to grab the latest issue of PEOPLE, where you can find this exclusive interview and more exciting content.
