Meryl Streep, Pedro Pascal, and Ben Stiller are among the celebrities to have paid tribute to Emmy-winning comedic actress Catherine O'Hara, who died on Friday aged 71.

The Canadian was best known for her roles in the films Beetlejuice and Home Alone, as well as comedy TV series including Schitt's Creek and The Studio.

Streep said O'Hara brought love and light to our world, through whipsmart compassion for the collection of eccentrics she portrayed, while The Last of Us co-star Pascal said he was eternally grateful to have worked with her.

Ben Stiller said it was hard to explain the impact she had on comedy, adding that for him there was no one better.

O'Hara died at her home in Los Angeles following a brief illness, as confirmed by her agent.

Beginning her career in Canada's comedy scene, O'Hara went on to deliver a series of memorable performances, earning critical acclaim.

Streep, who starred alongside O'Hara in the 1980s comedy Heartburn, described her death as a great loss for her family and friends, and the audience she graced as friends.

Michael Keaton, who worked with her on Beetlejuice, reminisced about their long-standing friendship, saying, This one hurts. Man am I gonna miss her.

Tim Burton, who directed O'Hara in both Beetlejuice films, shared a fond memory, stating, Catherine, I love you. You were a special part of my life and afterlife.

Actor Alec Baldwin praised her unique comedic talents, while Pascal noted that there is less light in my world without her.

O'Hara's on-screen son in the Home Alone series, Macaulay Culkin, also shared his heartbreak, expressing how he wished for more time together, saying, I wanted to sit in a chair next to you.

With a resurgence in popularity following her role as Moira in Schitt's Creek, the show's co-creator Dan Levy called her family before she ever played my family.

O'Hara is survived by her husband Bo Welch, their sons Matthew and Luke, and her six siblings. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy that includes a Golden Globe win for her performance in Schitt's Creek as well as a nomination for her role in Seth Rogen's satirical film The Studio.

From former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to acclaimed actors, the world remembers Catherine O'Hara as a beloved icon and a true giant of comedy.