Dan Levy Says He’s Honoring Catherine O’Hara at 2026 Emmys: “A Very Bittersweet Experience”

Dan Levy says he’ll be honoring the late Catherine O’Hara at the 2026 Emmys Awards on Sunday night.

While chatting with Trisha Paytas and Nicky Campbell on the red carpet during NBC’s official preshow on TikTok, Levy said it was “bittersweet” to be at the Emmys following his Schitt’s Creek co-star’s death in January at age 71.

“I’m honoring Catherine tonight, which is still surreal to even think about, so you know it’s like a very bittersweet experience,” Levy said. Paytas added that she’s “looking forward to the tribute tonight from you.”

Levy and Schitt’s Creek star Annie Murphy were previously announced as presenters at Sunday night’s ceremony. O’Hara played David’s (Levy) and Alexis’ (Murphy) mom and eccentric soap opera star, Moira Rose, on the show for six seasons. Schitt’s Creek won a total of nine Emmys throughout its run.

Following O’Hara’s death, Levy shared in a tribute at the time, “What a gift to have gotten to dance in the warm glow of Catherine O’Hara’s brilliance for all those years.”

“Having spent over fifty years collaborating with my Dad, Catherine was extended family before she ever played my family. It’s hard to imagine a world without her in it. I will cherish every funny memory I was fortunate enough to make with her,” he continued. “My heart goes out to Bo, Matthew, Luke and every member of her big, beautiful family.”

The Hollywood Reporter previously learned that Reba McEntire was also tapped to perform a special tribute to Dolly Parton, who died last month at age 80 after a brief battle with cancer. Noah Kahan will also be performing during the In Memoriam segment.

The 78th Emmy Awards, hosted by Law & Order: Special Victims Unit star Mariska Hargitay, will air live from the Peacock Theater on Monday, Sept. 14, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on NBC and Peacock. Check out all the winners here and the red carpet arrivals here.