Summary

• Moira Rose's theatrical flair shines in iconic quotes, blending absurdity with poignancy for unforgettable comedic moments on Schitt's Creek.
• From melodramatic lamentations to comedic gold dialogue, Moira's lines define iconic scenes and establish her as a cultural phenomenon.
• Through witty rebukes, emotional outbursts, and dramatic humor, Moira Rose's character depth adds comedic yet relatable layers to Schitt's Creek.

Schitt’s Creek's Moira Rose as one of television's most eccentric and captivating characters, and the best Moira Rose quotes prove exactly that. Within the quirky ensemble, Moira, portrayed with theatrical brilliance by Catherine O’Hara in the Schitt's Creek cast, distinguishes herself with her outlandish fashion, uniquely pronounced vocabulary, and unparalleled flair for the dramatic. Her antics, born from the tribulations of adjusting from a life of wealth to small-town simplicity, bring a comedic depth that resonates with audiences, making her moments on screen not just funny, but unforgettable.

The essence of Moira Rose's charm lies in her melodramatic lamentations and the comedic gold of her dialogue, masterfully delivered by O'Hara. Whether bemoaning the loss of her former social status or concocting grandiose plans to reclaim her glory, Moira's lines are a delightful fusion of the absurd and the poignant, providing a steady stream of humor throughout the series. As Schitt’s Creek progressed through its seven seasons, the best Moira Rose quotes have not only defined iconic scenes but have also cemented her status as a cultural phenomenon, continually drawing fans into her exaggerated yet strangely relatable world.

"Fear Not, She Hath Risen!"

Season 4, Episode 5, "RIP Moira Rose"

In the Schitt's Creek season 4, a rumor spread online that Moira had died. The entire town was sad by the news – particularly the Jazzagals, of which Moira is a cherished member. The local a capella group mourned the loss of their spirited friend, so when Moira saw her friends crying over her "death," she gave them the ultimate greeting to prove her life: "She hath risen!" Watching the women learn that Moira was alive was one of the best and most memorable Jazzagals scenes.

The mix of relief and joy that floods the room is palpable, and the reunion becomes a memorable spectacle. This episode not only highlights Moira’s iconic sense of drama but also reinforces the deep bonds within the Jazzagals, making it a standout moment in the series for its blend of humor, surprise, and touching camaraderie.

"Who Put A Picture Of A Ghost On My Desk?"

Season 4, Episode 6, "Open Mic"

In season 4, episode 6, "Open Mic," Moira Rose encounters an unexpected and bewildering surprise that leads to one of her most memorable quotes. Renowned for her worldly knowledge yet sometimes oblivious to the simpler things, Moira is taken aback when she finds what she believes to be a "picture of a ghost" placed ominously on her desk. The scene unfolds with her characteristic mix of horror and fascination, only to discover the "ghost" is actually a sonogram of a baby.

The sonogram in question belongs to Roland and Jocelyn Schitt, who are expecting a child. Roland, ever the prankster and intent on keeping the baby’s gender a secret, decides to hide the ultrasound picture on Moira’s desk, knowing she would be the least likely to decipher its true nature. Moira's dramatic and confused reaction provides a hilarious highlight of the episode, showcasing her flair for the theatrical even in everyday misunderstandings. This moment not only adds a layer of comedy but also subtly underscores the close-knit, albeit quirky, community dynamics within Schitt's Creek.

“How Was I To Know You Were In Peril? You Keep Everything Inside, Like A Bashful Clam!”

Season 5, Episode 13, "The Hike"

Moira and Johnny are one of the best Schitt's Creek couples; they'e eccentric but have a close bond where they both rely on each other. Known for their eccentricities and unwavering support for each other, their relationship is tested under unusual circumstances. The episode reaches a critical moment when Johnny experiences alarming health complications. Struggling for breath, he exhibits symptoms that suggest a possible heart attack, throwing Moira into a state of panic. Accustomed to his usual stoicism and tendency to underplay his vulnerabilities, Moira is caught off guard by the severity of the situation.

In a mix of concern and frustration, and unable to hide her fear of facing life without him, Moira lashes out in her unique way. She exclaims, “How was I to know you were in peril? You keep everything inside, like a bashful clam!” This quote perfectly encapsulates her feelings of helplessness mixed with reproach, highlighting their dynamic where emotional transparency is both a challenge and a necessity. This poignant yet comically charged moment highlights the complexities of their relationship, emphasizing their reliance on one another amidst life’s unpredictable trials.

"If She Takes On Smoke She’ll Never Recover!"

Season 6, Episode 1, "Smoke Signals"

In season 6, episode 1, "Smoke Signals," Moira faces what she perceives as a truly catastrophic event amidst the mundane struggles of daily life in Schitt's Creek. Having endured the frustration of lost acting opportunities and financial downfall, it's not these losses but the threat to her cherished wigs that brings her to a state of utter desperation. The episode captures a moment of high drama when a fire alarm leads to the discovery of smoke billowing from a room — a room where Moira's beloved collection of wigs is stored.

As Roland heroically ventures into the haze to rescue her precious "girls," Moira's panic is palpable. She urgently instructs him, “My girls. Lorna, second from the left. If she takes on smoke she’ll never recover!" followed by an equally anxious plea for Cindy, whose recent styling added to Moira’s distress. This scene shows Moira’s theatrical personality and her genuine attachment to her wigs, which she humanizes and names, treating them as extensions of her identity. Moira frantically concerned over her wigs, juxtaposed with the real danger of the situation, hilariously encapsulates what truly matters to her.

“Alexis! Turtles Do Not Pets Make!”

Season 6, Episode 3, "The Job Interview"

The Rose family's characteristic quirks and challenges with daily responsibilities are highlighted in a humorous subplot involving Alexis and an unusual gift from Ted. As the Roses are known for their glamorous but impractical lifestyle, the notion of them caring for a pet seems far-fetched, which is humorously displayed in this "The Job Interview." The scene unfolds as Alexis tries to adapt to life with a new pet turtle, also named Ted, a parting gift meant to provide her some companionship as their relationship reaches a bittersweet conclusion.

Alexis struggles with her new responsibility, misplacing her slow-moving companion. In a moment of exasperated comic relief, Moira chimes in with her signature dramatic flair, admonishing her daughter with the line, “Alexis! Turtles do not pets make!” This clever inversion of syntax reflects Moira’s theatrical way of expressing even the simplest truths. The line serves as a funny yet poignant reminder of the Roses' ongoing adjustments to their less glamorous life in Schitt’s Creek and the absurdity of their attempts at normalcy, encapsulated in the struggle of keeping track of a turtle.

"Be Careful, John. Lest You Suffer Vertigo From The Dizzying Heights Of Your Moral Ground."

Season 6, Episode 8, "The Presidential Suite"

Moira Rose's knack for theatrical and incisive remarks shines through during a spirited exchange with her husband. "The Presidential Suite" revolves around the couple's differing visions for their latest motel venture, particularly when Johnny decides against indulging in the extravagance of staying in the presidential suite — a decision that Moira deems overly prudent and needlessly self-righteous. Moira, ever the master of eloquent and pointed commentary, delivers one of her signature sophisticated rebukes.

Frustrated with Johnny's high moral stance, she admonishes him with the line, “Be careful, John. Lest you suffer vertigo from the dizzying heights of your moral ground.” This quote is quintessentially Moira — witty, slightly acerbic, and layered with dramatic flair. It serves not only as a humorous jab at Johnny’s expense but also subtly underscores a deeper dynamic in their relationship: Moira challenging Johnny's decisions and pushing him to reconsider their consequences. This interplay, rich with Moira's theatrical language, highlights their enduring partnership, and it's one of Moira's best pieces of advice.

"The Live Crows On Set Welcomed Me As One Of Their Own. One Even Tried To Mate."

Season 6, Episode 4, "Maid Of Honor"

In "Maid of Honor," Moira's acting career takes center stage once again as she grapples with the reality of her current professional standing. The episode delves into Moira’s involvement in the cult film sequel, The Crows Have Eyes III: The Crowening, a project she views as a significant comeback opportunity, despite clear signs that it’s far from a mainstream success. Moira’s unwavering dedication to her craft is evident as she immerses herself deeply into her character, often with hilariously earnest seriousness that borders on the absurd.

With her usual flair for drama, Moira recounts, “The live crows on set welcomed me as one of their own. One even tried to mate.” This line is delivered with a mix of pride and bemusement, capturing her unique blend of delusion and dedication. It highlights Moira’s ability to find significance and a sense of belonging in the most bizarre circumstances, making her one of the most endearingly outlandish characters on television.

"I May Have Been Wrong. You May Have Been Not Wrong."

Season 6, Episode 5, "The Premiere"

In "The Premiere," Moira is faced with the uncomfortable task of admitting she may have misjudged a situation, specifically regarding Alexis's idea for a hometown premiere of her latest film. This episode is particularly meaningful as it showcases both Moira's theatrical work and her complex relationship with admitting her own mistakes. Moira, who typically envelops her concessions in dramatic flair and reluctance, delivers a classic line to Alexis: "I may have been wrong. You may have been not wrong." This uniquely crafted acknowledgment, laden with double negatives, exemplifies Moira's comedic unwillingness to straightforwardly admit that Alexis was correct.

This interaction highlights a moment of vulnerability and personal growth for Moira, who is rarely seen admitting faults without a dramatic display. It also reflects her struggle to openly recognize the contributions of others, particularly when it challenges her own pride. Through this scene, not only is humor effectively conveyed, but it also adds significant depth to Moira’s character, revealing her intricate personality and the nuanced ways she navigates family dynamics and personal development. As a result, "The Premiere" is one of Moira's best episodes.

"You Could Be Hit By A Mack Truck Or Bopped On The Head by A Tiny Piece Of Space Debris."

Season 6, Episode 1, "Smoke Signals"

If there’s anyone who can make a person think about the fragility of life while laughing out loud, it’s Moira Rose. She goes through a roller coaster of emotions in the season 6 premiere. At one point, she genuinely believes her acting career is ruined, and she’s ready to give it all up to focus on daily life in Schitt’s Creek. By the end of the episode, that’s not true. The roller coaster allows her to give us this existential gem.

After losing her job and gaining a job, Moira tells Johnny, "Who knows what will befall us tomorrow, John. You could be hit by a Mack truck or bopped on the head by a tiny piece of space debris." This was Moira's version of #YOLO. Regardless of her career, Moira and Johnny were couples goals for their constant support of one another.

"Alexis... Something Rose."

Season 1, Episode 4, "Bad Parents"

The complexities of Moira and Alexis Rose's relationship are humorously spotlighted in a scene that displays Moira's less-than-stellar parenting skills. "Bad Parents" sets the stage for the evolving dynamic between mother and daughter, revealing the shaky foundation upon which their early relationship is built. During a conversation, Moira attempts to address her daughter formally but stumbles comically, only managing to say, "Alexis...Something Rose." As one of Schitt's Creek's best mother-daughter moments, it reveals that she can't even recall the middle name she bestowed upon her own daughter.

This lapse serves not only as a source of comedy but also as a poignant reflection of the initial superficiality in their relationship. Alexis's reaction to her mother's forgetfulness mixes amusement with a touch of resigned frustration, a dynamic that resonates throughout their interactions in the series. Despite the humor in these moments, they subtly lay the groundwork for their relationship's growth, showcasing how they gradually move from these humorous but strained exchanges to deeper, more meaningful connections.

"David, Stop Acting Like A Disgruntled Pelican!"

Season 3, Episode 1, "Opening Night"

"Opening Night" showcases yet another of Moira Rose's unique, if not eccentric, parenting moments, encapsulating her flair for the dramatic and her peculiar way of expressing concern. As the Rose family dynamics continue to evolve, they gradually learn to appreciate one another, even as their interactions remain characteristically over-the-top. Moira stumbles upon David post-encounter with a one-night stand, leading to an awkward interaction that prompts her to exclaim, "David, stop acting like a disgruntled pelican!"

This vivid and humorous metaphor not only highlights Moira’s theatrical language but also her unique way of dealing with uncomfortable situations involving her children. The quote has become a beloved David meme among fans of the show. It exemplifies Moira's dramatic and often humorous approach to motherhood and family interactions. The quote is a perfect illustration of the show's ability to blend humor with the family's quirky relationships, showing Moira’s attempt to connect with and guide her son through humor and vivid imagery, even if her methods are unconventional.

"The Last Time I Felt This Emotionally Encumbered, I Was Playing Lady Macbeth..."

Season 4, Episode 1, "Dead Guy In Room 4"

One of the best things about Schitt’s Creek is hearing about the past adventures and foibles of the characters. While they might be living in a small town away from their past glamorous existence, they still have a lot to say about those times. A reality at Rosebud Motel didn't always make sense to Moira because she was accustomed to another way of life, but it was her new home.

Moira says this line after she feels like she killed a man at the motel. A guest asked Moira for pain medication, she denied his request and woke up to him dead in his bed. She was "emotionally encumbered" by this situation. It was something she hadn't felt since playing "Lady Macbeth on a Crystal Skies cruise ship." The quote exemplifies how Moira uses her dramatic background to process and articulate her feelings about the often absurd situations she finds herself in,

"Gossip Is The Devil's Telephone. Best To Just Hang Up."

Season 4, Episode 4, "Girls' Night"

Moira delivers a line that perfectly encapsulates her complex character and the show's humorous exploration of personal contradictions. Known for her often grandiose and theatrical wisdom, Moira advises Twyla, "Gossip is the devil's telephone. Best to just hang up." This piece of advice, rich with Moira’s typical flair, is particularly ironic and amusing given that she herself is frequently entangled in the town’s gossip, especially when it benefits her. This irony is highlighted by the context in which she delivers the advice.

Just moments before imparting this wisdom, Moira had been actively engaging in gossip about Alexis’s tumultuous love life, making her an active participant in the very behavior she cautions against. Alexis's wild past makes her an easy target for gossip — even by her mother. This juxtaposition between her actions and her words adds a layer of humor to the episode and serves as a reflection of her character's delightful hypocrisy. Moira's ability to dispense advice that she does not follow makes her an iconic comedic figure.

"Oh, I'd Kill For A Good Coma Right Now."

Season 1, Episode 13, "Town For Sale"

Moira is inspirational as a woman and an actress but her dramatics can be over the top, as proven in "Town for Sale." The episode focuses on a pivotal moment for the Rose family as they face the possibility of escaping their small-town life when a potential buyer shows interest in purchasing Schitt's Creek. However, the buyer's sudden slip into a coma dashes their hopes of a quick departure, a twist that Moira responds to with her typical theatricality.

When Johnny tries to offer a hopeful perspective on the buyer's condition, noting that people do wake up from comas, Moira delivers the line, "Oh, I'd kill for a good coma right now." This statement, dripping with her characteristic over-the-top drama, perfectly captures her frustration and desire to escape the tedious and unglamorous reality of life in Schitt's Creek. Moira’s dramatic response not only provides comic relief but also underscores her often extravagant and self-centered nature, illustrating how her theatricality permeates her approach to both crises and everyday life.

"The World Is Falling Apart Around Us And I'm Dying Inside."

Season 1, Episode 1, "Our Cup Runneth Over"

This quote matches Moira's personality to a tee. As the Rose family grapples with their sudden fall from wealth and status to their new life in the modest town of Schitt's Creek, Moira encapsulates their collective despair with her declaration: "The world is falling apart around us and I'm dying inside." This statement not only showcases Moira’s theatrical personality but also her ability to articulately express her emotions, a trait that makes her a standout character on the show.

Her dramatic articulation of distress, while often humorous, also reveals a genuine vulnerability; Moira's lack of filter in conveying what she feels—regardless of how grandiose or self-centered it might appear — creates moments of relatable, albeit exaggerated, human emotion. This ability to voice her inner turmoil in such a dramatic fashion provides not just comic relief but also a deeper connection for audiences who have come to adore her for her unfiltered expressions and the heartfelt, if overly dramatic, honesty she brings to every scene.

"What You Did Was Impulsive, Capricious, And Melodramatic."

Season 2, Episode 1, "Finding David"

When Moira says this line to her children, it starts off seeming like she is scolding them for acting in these ways. But, in true Moira fashion, she’s actually proud of them for being who they are. This makes sense given that their personality traits are ones that she has modeled for them over the years. While she does scold them, she’s also proud of their melodramatic side and interested in honing that.

Moira said this to David after he ran away from home and hid at an Amish farm. David's running away is one of Schitt's Creek's funniest gags in the series. It was also the last time David ran away from home. By pointing out these behaviors as flaws yet embracing them as virtues, Moira encapsulates the duality of her feelings towards parenting and her children's actions.

"Why Must You Be So Constantly Irksome?"

Season 1, Episode 4, "Bad Parents"

Moira Rose's distinctive communication style is on full display when she addresses Alexis with a typically Moira-esque inquiry: "Why must you be so constantly irksome?" This episode peels back another layer of their complex mother-daughter relationship as Alexis probes her mother about her own middle name — an inquiry that underscores Moira’s often detached parenting style. Moira’s response, while seemingly harsh, reflects her characteristic blend of high diction and dramatic flair, both elements that make her such a memorable character on Schitt’s Creek.

Moira's verbal prowess and her ability to articulate her annoyance in such an eloquent manner often serve as comic relief, even in moments of family tension. This instance, where she labels Alexis as "irksome" for a relatively innocent question, not only brings a laugh but also highlights Moira’s lack of sensitivity towards others' feelings, a trait that she seems both aware of and unbothered by.

"This Wine Is Awful. Give Me Another Glass."

Season 1, Episode 6, "Wine And Roses"

Moira Rose delivers a line that resonates with anyone who has ever tried to make the best of a less-than-ideal situation. Tasked with acting in a commercial for a local winery, Moira finds herself in the uncomfortable position of having to promote a product she finds distinctly unpalatable. The wine, which fails to meet her standards, leads to the humorously contradictory declaration: "This wine is awful. Give me another glass." This remark perfectly captures Moira’s complex relationship with luxury and comfort, as well as her resilience in adapting to her new life in Schitt’s Creek.

The quote not only highlights Moira's theatrical background and her struggles to maintain her actress persona in less glamorous circumstances but also showcases her ability to find enjoyment — or at least solace — in the face of adversity. Her line, delivered with her characteristic blend of drama and disdain, is both comedic and endearing, making it one of the many memorable Moira moments that fans of the show love and relate to.

"With The Vigor Of A Wartime Radio Operator."

Season 3, Episode 8, "Motel Review"

Moira Rose's flair for the dramatic is brilliantly showcased as she takes on the role of managing the front desk at the Rosebud Motel. Her theatrical background and unique approach to even the most mundane tasks are highlighted when she describes her own manner of handling the hotel’s telephone with, "With the vigor of a wartime radio operator." This analogy, rich in historical drama and intensity, amusingly contrasts with the reality of her simply answering calls at a small-town motel.

This episode delightfully captures Moira's tendency to see her life through a theatrical lens, often imagining herself in far more dramatic circumstances than reality presents. Her statement not only adds humor due to its grandiose nature but also sheds light on how Moira's perception of herself can sometimes be at odds with how others see her. In this instance, her dramatic approach to customer service, while intended to be efficient and professional, ends up being overly intense for the setting.

"You Are Blind To Reality And For That, I Am Most Proud."

Season 1, Episode 2, "The Drip"

Moira articulates a sentiment that encapsulates her own detachment from reality as well as her somewhat unconventional maternal pride. The quote, "You are blind to reality and for that, I am most proud," is directed at her children during their challenging adjustment to life in Schitt’s Creek. This line, delivered early in the series, provides a profound glimpse into Moira’s character, revealing both her denial of their new economic status and her admiration for her children's similar ability to evade the harshness of their reality.

This statement is particularly significant, as it highlights Moira’s own struggles with accepting their fall from grace while also showcasing her deep-seated pride in her children's resilience — or in this case, their shared delusion. Over the course of Schitt's Creek, this detachment from reality becomes a crucial theme for the Rose family, as each member gradually confronts and adapts to their circumstances.