Martin Short Seen in Public for First Time Since Daughter's Death

The comedian was spotted dining with friend J.J. Abrams in Santa Monica.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:34am

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Martin Short was photographed in Los Angeles for the first time since the death of his daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, in February. The 76-year-old comedian was seen exiting a restaurant and entering the passenger seat of director J.J. Abrams' car in Santa Monica on March 27.

Why it matters

Short has largely avoided the public eye since confirming his 42-year-old daughter's death, which was ruled a suicide by investigators. The sighting marks one of the first times the actor has been seen in public since the tragic loss.

The details

According to reports, Short was spotted dining with his longtime friend and Star Wars director J.J. Abrams in Santa Monica on Friday, March 27. The comedian did not interact with photographers on the scene as he got into Abrams' car after the meal.

  • On February 24, Short confirmed the death of his daughter Katherine Hartley Short.
  • On February 23, police responded to a call of a possible suicide attempt in the Hollywood Hills and found Katherine deceased.
  • On March 27, Short was photographed dining with director J.J. Abrams in Santa Monica.

The players

Martin Short

A 76-year-old comedian who is the father of the late Katherine Hartley Short.

J.J. Abrams

A film director and producer who is a longtime friend of Martin Short.

Katherine Hartley Short

Martin Short's 42-year-old daughter, whose death in February 2026 was ruled a suicide.

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What they’re saying

“'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.'”

— The Short family

What’s next

Martin Short and Steve Martin are set to resume their 2026 Best of Steve Martin & Martin Short Tour on April 11 at the Johnny Mercer Theater in Savannah, Georgia.

The takeaway

The sighting of Martin Short in public for the first time since his daughter's death provides a glimpse into the actor's grieving process, as he and his family continue to mourn the tragic loss.