Dan Levy Says Catherine O’Hara Would Completely Rewrite Her “Schitt’s Creek ”Scenes in Emails That Began, ‘Gentlemen, Some Thoughts’

Catherine O’Hara, renowned for her remarkable portrayal of Moira Rose in the hit comedy series “Schitt’s Creek,” captivated audiences from 2015 to 2020. The beloved actress garnered a Primetime Emmy Award for her work on the show, solidifying her legacy in the world of television. Following her passing earlier this year at the age of 71, co-star Dan Levy has shared fond memories reflecting on their time together, shedding light on O’Hara’s commitment to the craft.

In an episode of “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” aired on April 20, Levy spoke candidly about the unique working relationship he shared with O’Hara. Levy, who not only starred as David Rose but also played a pivotal role in the show’s development, highlighted O’Hara’s passion for her character and her approach to enhancing the script with her own creative flair.

Levy recounted instances where O’Hara would send out lengthy emails the night before filming, redesigning scenes with her own meticulous rewrites. “She would start her emails with ‘Gentlemen, some thoughts,’” Levy recalled, describing the thrill of receiving these drafts laden with O’Hara’s innovative ideas. He acknowledged that while it was his responsibility to be ready for her contributions, the true artistry of Moira Rose was a product of O’Hara’s brilliance.

One of O’Hara’s significant contributions to her character was the choice of her extravagant costumes, often adorned in striking black and white attire alongside an array of wigs. Levy explained that outfitting O’Hara in her iconic looks was a collaborative effort, requiring foresight to acquire the most inspiring designs that would evoke excitement before shooting. “My job was to ensure we had everything that would excite her,” he stated.

The series “Schitt’s Creek” revolves around a wealthy family whose fortunes dwindle, forcing them to relocate to a rundown motel in the eponymous town—a sharp departure from their luxurious lifestyle. Levy divulged a light-hearted notion that the family managed to retain every outfit they ever owned, which he imagined stashed above the motel lobby. He observed that the show’s costumes played a critical role in character development, nearly doing the elaborative work for the cast.

As the conversation turned to the more challenging aspects of costume changes, Levy described how getting O’Hara into her outfits could be quite an affair. In one notable scene, where Moira dons a latex dress during a photoshoot, Levy recounted a comedic moment involving a small team working together to fasten O’Hara into the elaborate garment. “At one point, four people were around her,” he explained, recalling the balancing act of ensuring she was comfortable whilst managing the complexities of the latex.

O’Hara thrived in those moments, embodying the vibrant and extravagant spirit of Moira Rose. Levy recalled the palpable joy that illuminated her when she engaged in the creative process, stating, “That was when Catherine was at her most excited,” as the crew watched in awe of her energy and enthusiasm.

Winning an Emmy for her performance in 2020 would not be the last time O’Hara expressed her love for the character and the series. In an interview conducted in 2022, she voiced her desire to reunite with her castmates for a sequel or film adaptation of “Schitt’s Creek.” O’Hara fondly recalled the camaraderie they experienced during a series of tours after the show concluded and expressed a genuine wish to collaborate once again.

Reflecting on her experiences, O’Hara extended heartfelt gratitude to Levy and his father, Eugene Levy, thanking them for their roles in shaping her character. “It’s such a gift to work with people with whom you can collaborate,” she remarked, recognising the joy of crafting a role within such an extraordinary artistic environment. Her legacy is rooted in her ability to bring such depth and warmth to Moira Rose, a character who will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.

As fans and colleagues remember Catherine O’Hara, her contributions to television remain unparalleled, illustrating the profound impact she made on the industry. The beloved actress leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten, immortalised through her unforgettable performances and the special memories shared with those she inspired.