Seth Rogen and Ike Barinholtz recently filmed scenes for Season 2 of The Studio in New York City, where the series will reportedly address the death of Catherine O’Hara’s beloved character, Patty Leigh.
A New York Shoot Offered a Glimpse Into Season 2
June 23, 2026: The Studio is continuing production on its second season, and a recent filming location in New York City has provided fans with new insight into how the series plans to handle one of its most heartbreaking losses.
According to Page Six, Seth Rogen and co-star Ike Barinholtz were spotted filming scenes at Gallagher’s Steakhouse in Manhattan. The sequence reportedly includes a conversation about the death of Patty Leigh, the character portrayed by the late Catherine O’Hara during the show’s acclaimed first season.
The revelation comes months after Rogen confirmed that the Apple TV+ comedy would not ignore O’Hara’s passing and would instead incorporate her absence into the story in a meaningful way.
For fans of the series, the news marks another emotional chapter following the actress’s death earlier this year.
Image Credit: Apple TV/Courtesy Everett Collection
Catherine O’Hara Was One of Season One’s Biggest Highlights
When The Studio debuted, Catherine O’Hara’s portrayal of Patty Leigh quickly became one of the standout performances of the series.
The veteran actress played the former head of Continental Studios and served as both mentor and occasional adversary to Seth Rogen‘s Matt Remick. Her chemistry with the cast and her comedic timing were widely praised by critics and audiences alike.
The role became one of the final performances of O’Hara’s legendary career.
Known for classics including Beetlejuice, Home Alone, Best in Show, and Schitt’s Creek, O’Hara brought decades of experience and warmth to the Apple TV+ comedy.
Her performance also earned awards recognition and further solidified her reputation as one of comedy’s most beloved talents.
The Actress Passed Away During Early Season 2 Production
Catherine O’Hara died on January 30, 2026, at the age of 71.
At the time, production on Season 2 had only recently begun. According to reports, O’Hara had intended to return to the show but was unable to film any scenes before her death.
Her passing deeply affected the cast and crew.
Seth Rogen later recalled that everyone on set was devastated and admitted that the team struggled emotionally with how to move forward. The first days of filming following the tragedy were particularly difficult for those who had become close to the actress.
The loss also created creative challenges, forcing the writers to rethink the direction of the upcoming season.
Seth Rogen Promised the Show Would Not Ignore Reality
Earlier this year, Rogen spoke candidly about the difficult decision facing the creative team.
Rather than pretending Patty Leigh simply disappeared, he and co-creator Evan Goldberg decided to acknowledge the absence directly. Rogen explained that the show would explore the feeling of being “a little anchorless” without O’Hara while remaining true to the series’ comedic spirit.
According to the creators, themes of grief and change will naturally be present throughout Season 2, though the series will avoid becoming overly heavy.
The approach reflects their desire to honor O’Hara’s legacy while remaining faithful to the tone that made The Studio successful.
Image Credit: Helayne Seidman
The NYC Episode Will Reportedly Address Patty Leigh’s Fate
The newly filmed New York sequence appears to be one of the first concrete examples of how Season 2 plans to tackle the loss.
Page Six reported that Rogen and Barinholtz’s characters discuss Patty Leigh’s death during a scene set inside Gallagher’s Steakhouse. The restaurant’s real employees reportedly participated in the filming, continuing the show’s tradition of incorporating authentic locations and personalities into its storylines.
The series became known during its first season for blending fictional narratives with appearances by real-life celebrities and industry figures.
Season 2 appears poised to continue that formula while adding more emotional depth.
Fellow Cast Members Have Promised a Meaningful Tribute
Bryan Cranston recently revealed that the show’s creators have prepared a heartfelt tribute for O’Hara.
According to the actor, the first episode of Season 2 will honor her contributions and celebrate the enormous impact she had on everyone involved with the production.
Cranston described O’Hara as not only a comedic genius but also a generous collaborator whose presence elevated everyone around her.
Those sentiments have been echoed by multiple members of the cast and crew.
The affection and admiration surrounding O’Hara have become central themes in conversations about the upcoming season.
Fans Have Embraced the Decision
News that The Studio will acknowledge O’Hara’s passing has been met with largely positive reactions.
Many viewers expressed appreciation that the creators chose to confront reality rather than ignore it.
Fans have praised Rogen and Goldberg for attempting to balance comedy with genuine emotion and for ensuring that O’Hara’s contribution to the series will not be forgotten.
Social media users have also shared memories of the actress’s work across film and television, reflecting on her decades-long legacy.
For many fans, Patty Leigh represented one more unforgettable performance from a beloved star.
Image Credit: Helayne Seidman
Why the Story Has Resonated With Audiences
The response to O’Hara’s death and its impact on The Studio highlights just how deeply audiences connected with the actress.
Throughout her career, she earned admiration not only for her talent but also for her kindness and professionalism.
By choosing to incorporate that loss into the story, the creators are acknowledging a reality shared by both the characters and the audience.
In many ways, the upcoming season represents more than just another chapter of a television series.
It also serves as a tribute to one of comedy’s most cherished performers.
Final Thoughts
Season 2 of The Studio is preparing to address one of the most emotional moments in the show’s history.
As Seth Rogen and his collaborators continue filming, the decision to acknowledge Catherine O’Hara’s passing demonstrates the enormous respect and affection the team has for the late actress.
For fans, the upcoming season promises not only laughs but also a heartfelt celebration of O’Hara’s remarkable legacy.
FAQs
Why is The Studio trending?
The series is making headlines after reports revealed that a Season 2 episode filmed in New York City references the death of Catherine O’Hara’s character Patty Leigh.
Who did Catherine O’Hara play in The Studio?
She portrayed Patty Leigh, the former head of Continental Studios and mentor to Seth Rogen’s character.
Did Catherine O’Hara film Season 2?
No. Reports indicate she was unable to film scenes before her death.
How will The Studio handle Catherine O’Hara’s death?
Seth Rogen has confirmed the series will acknowledge her absence rather than ignore it.
Where was the recent episode filmed?
Seth Rogen and Ike Barinholtz recently filmed scenes at Gallagher’s Steakhouse in Manhattan.
Will Season 2 include a tribute to Catherine O’Hara?
Yes. Bryan Cranston has revealed that the show will honor the late actress in a meaningful way.
Published by HOLR Magazine