Katherine Short, Daughter of Martin Short, Dies by Suicide at 42

Her death certificate reveals new details about the tragic passing of the mental health therapist.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Katherine Hartley Short, the 42-year-old daughter of actor Martin Short, has died by suicide at her home in the Hollywood Hills. Her death certificate reveals she was a mental health therapist who had a master's degree and worked in the field for 10 years. Katherine was found deceased behind a locked door, with a note nearby, after a friend called 911 for a welfare check when she hadn't been heard from for a day.

Why it matters

The tragic loss of Katherine Short, who dedicated her career to supporting others' mental health, has deeply impacted her famous father Martin Short and raised awareness around the challenges of mental illness. Her death has prompted discussions about mental health support, suicide prevention, and the unique challenges faced by the families of public figures.

The details

According to the death certificate, Katherine was cremated on February 27, just days after her passing on February 23 at her home in the Hollywood Hills. The certificate listed her occupation as a social work therapist, noting she had a master's degree, and also worked part-time at the Amae Health clinic. Katherine was found deceased by a friend who called 911 after being unable to enter her locked bedroom, where she was discovered with a note nearby.

  • Katherine Short died on Monday, February 23, 2026.
  • She was cremated on Friday, February 27, 2026.

The players

Katherine Hartley Short

The 42-year-old daughter of actor Martin Short, who worked as a mental health therapist with a master's degree and had a part-time job at the Amae Health clinic.

Martin Short

The veteran actor who adopted Katherine with his late wife Nancy Dolman. Martin and Nancy also shared two adopted sons, Oliver and Henry.

Nancy Dolman

Martin Short's late wife, who passed away in 2010 at the age of 58 after battling ovarian cancer.

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What’s next

The LAPD is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Katherine Short's death, and the family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.

The takeaway

The tragic loss of Katherine Short, a dedicated mental health professional, has deeply impacted her famous father Martin Short and raised awareness about the challenges of mental illness and suicide prevention. Her story underscores the importance of providing support and resources for those struggling with their mental health, even among public figures and their families.