Celebrating a Comedic Genius: The Enduring Charm of Moira Rose
A Cherished Encounter: Recalling a Pre-Pandemic Lunch with Comedy Legends
Before the global landscape shifted dramatically, I had the immense pleasure of sharing a protracted midday meal with the incomparable Catherine O'Hara and her long-time creative collaborator, Eugene Levy. This meeting, held on February 28, 2020, at the Huntley Hotel in Santa Monica, now feels like a precious memory, a perfect culmination to a career spent interviewing fascinating individuals. Our conversation revolved around the beloved series "Schitt's Creek," a show that would soon become a global phenomenon.
Crafting an Icon: Catherine O'Hara's Vision for Moira Rose
During our discussion, the profound dedication O'Hara had to embodying Moira Rose was evident. She recounted how Eugene and Dan Levy had conceived the role specifically for her. Eugene humorously recalled the delicate task of inviting her to join the project, mentioning CBC's enthusiasm, which piqued her interest. However, the initial summer filming schedule was met with a characteristic O'Hara retort, highlighting her cherished Canadian cottage retreats. Eugene, ever the accommodating partner, quickly revised the schedule to spring, a testament to their enduring friendship and mutual respect. O'Hara's meticulous approach extended to Moira's distinct aesthetic; she arrived at early meetings armed with visual references, including images of socialite Daphne Guinness, much to the delight and rapid note-taking of Dan Levy. Her equally iconic voice and accent were a more abstract creation, a linguistic masterpiece that, as she humorously admitted, was difficult to articulate via email but instantly captivating upon first hearing. Eugene Levy, still marveling, described it as "unreal," while O'Hara herself credited the success to working with "lovely, smart, talented people who allow you to sound like an alien."
The Immediate Resonance: Recognizing "Schitt's Creek's" Inherent Brilliance
When asked about the moment they recognized the series' potential, both O'Hara and Levy affirmed it was evident from the very first episode. O'Hara specifically praised the immediate chemistry between Dan Levy and Annie Murphy as the sibling duo, David and Alexis, despite their later confessions of initial intimidation by the comedic powerhouses. She humorously recalled the pilot's memorable line, "You get murdered first!" and, channeling Moira, added, "Bébés to us!" The duo frequently referenced their extensive shared history, adding another layer of charm to our conversation. When the topic of Emmy nominations arose, O'Hara playfully chided me, wagging her finger and exclaiming, "Don't suck us into the game! We were in 'For Your Consideration!'" a nod to their playful disdain for industry accolades despite their eventual sweep of all Emmy comedy categories that September.
A Lasting Impression: The Unforgettable Departure and Enduring Legacy
As our lengthy lunch drew to a close, I attempted a discreet exit to avoid an awkward elevator ride. However, upon reaching the lobby, I found Levy and O'Hara still engrossed in conversation at the valet stand, their camaraderie undeniable. I greeted them, retrieved my car, and as I drove away, I could still see them in my rearview mirror, talking and laughing, a lasting image of two creative souls whose bond extended far beyond the screen. This memory, imbued with the bittersweet understanding of her recent passing, reinforces the privilege I felt in witnessing such a genuine connection and the profound impact of O'Hara's comedic brilliance.