Martin Short Shares Emotional Tribute After the Death of His 42-Year-Old Daughter

Martin Short, the beloved comedian and Only Murders in the Building star, is grieving an unimaginable loss after the death of his eldest daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, at age 42. The news has sent shockwaves through Hollywood and beyond, as friends, fans, and the entertainment world express sorrow and support for the Short family during this painful time.

According to multiple sources, authorities responded to a welfare call at Katherine’s Hollywood Hills home on Monday evening, February 23, where she was found deceased. Law enforcement sources and family representatives indicate that her death was the result of a self-inflicted injury, and her passing is being investigated as an apparent suicide.

In a heartfelt family statement, representatives for Martin Short confirmed the devastating news: “It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. The Short family is devastated by this loss and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”

A Life Dedicated to Helping Others

Although she grew up as the daughter of a Hollywood icon, Katherine largely stayed out of the spotlight and built a meaningful life of her own. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006 and later obtained a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010.

Katherine went on to become a licensed clinical social worker in Los Angeles, practicing both privately and through community clinics. She also worked part-time at Amae Health, where she provided psychotherapy, facilitated family support groups, and engaged in community outreach.

Her dedication to mental health extended into nonprofit work as well: Katherine was involved with Bring Change 2 Mind, a well-known advocacy organization focused on ending the stigma surrounding mental illness.

Friends, former colleagues, and clients remember her as empathetic, compassionate, and generous — someone who brought light into the lives of people she supported through her work.

Family and Hollywood Legacy

Katherine was the eldest of three children adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, actress Nancy Dolman, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010. She leaves behind two brothers, Oliver Patrick Short (39) and Henry Hayter Short (36).

Short and Dolman were married for 30 years, and while Martin became widely known for his comedic genius on stage and screen, Katherine and her siblings were raised with a strong sense of family values and privacy.

In recent days, the family’s grief has reverberated through Hollywood. People close to the family shared that Martin Short has postponed several upcoming shows on his joint comedy tour with longtime friend Steve Martin, originally scheduled for late February, to allow time to mourn and be with his loved ones.

A Quiet Life With Meaningful Impact

Despite her father’s fame, Katherine largely lived outside the public eye, choosing instead to focus on her career in social work and mental health advocacy. She previously worked at the UCLA Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital and the Camden Center, building a reputation as a thoughtful and dedicated professional long before starting her own private practice.

Many who knew her emphasized her humility and sincerity — traits that mirrored her father’s own genuine personality off screen. While she occasionally appeared with Martin at public events, Katherine preferred a life grounded in purpose and meaningful connections rather than celebrity.

Reflections on Loss and Support

In the wake of the news, fans and colleagues have expressed deep sympathy not only for Martin Short but for all those affected by Katherine’s passing. Mental health advocates also reiterated the importance of seeking support, noting that resources such as crisis hotlines and counseling services exist to help individuals in distress.

The Short family’s request for privacy during this difficult period underscores the depth of their grief and the need for space to mourn such a profound loss. Katherine’s legacy — marked by compassion, service, and quiet strength will be remembered by those who knew her, those she helped, and many around the world familiar with her father’s remarkable life and career.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or emotional distress, support is available. In the U.S., call or text 988 to connect with trained counselors at the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. In other countries, local mental health resources can offer assistance and support. Encouraging open conversation about mental health can save lives and honor the memory of those who cared deeply for others.