Martin Short's Decades-Long Career Nets $30 Million Net Worth

The 'Only Murders in the Building' star's prolific work in comedy, film, and TV has built his impressive fortune.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Martin Short, the beloved Canadian actor and comedian, has amassed an estimated net worth of around $30 million through his decades-long career in the entertainment industry. From his early days on sketch comedy shows like SCTV and Saturday Night Live, to blockbuster films like Three Amigos! and Father of the Bride, to his recent starring role on the hit Hulu series Only Murders in the Building, Short has consistently earned high-profile and lucrative work that has allowed him to build substantial wealth.

Why it matters

Short's success story serves as an inspiration for aspiring comedians and actors, showcasing how a long, versatile career in the entertainment industry can translate to significant financial gains. His ability to remain relevant and in-demand over such an extended period is a testament to his talent and adaptability.

The details

Industry estimates place Short's salary for Only Murders in the Building at around $600,000 per episode, reflecting the show's status as one of Hulu's biggest hits and a major contributor to his overall income in recent years. Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, adopted three children during their nearly 30-year marriage, and he has spoken about how central his family is to his life, especially after Dolman's passing in 2010.

  • Short first gained widespread recognition on the sketch comedy show SCTV in the 1970s.
  • He later became a cast member on Saturday Night Live in the 1980s.
  • Short transitioned into movies in the late 1980s, starring in films like Three Amigos! and Father of the Bride.
  • Only Murders in the Building premiered in August 2021 and has aired five seasons so far, with Season 6 officially renewed in October 2025.
  • Short's daughter Katherine, a licensed clinical social worker, passed away in February 2026 at the age of 42.

The players

Martin Short

A Canadian-born actor and comedian who has built a decades-long career in comedy, film, and television, with an estimated net worth of around $30 million.

Nancy Dolman

Short's late wife, with whom he adopted three children during their nearly 30-year marriage.

Katherine Short

Short's daughter, a licensed clinical social worker who passed away in February 2026 at the age of 42.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The family is expected to hold a private memorial service for Katherine in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Martin Short's remarkable career longevity and versatility have allowed him to amass a substantial net worth, demonstrating the potential for long-term success in the entertainment industry. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring performers, while also highlighting the importance of family and personal resilience in the face of tragedy.