Martin Short's Daughter Katherine Short Dies at 42

Katherine Short, the daughter of actor Martin Short, has passed away at the age of 42.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Katherine Short, the daughter of actor Martin Short, has died at the age of 42. A representative for Martin Short confirmed the news, stating that the Short family is 'devastated by this loss' and asking for privacy. The Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call at Katherine Short's home on Monday evening for a possible suicide, where they found a deceased female. Katherine Short was one of three children that Martin Short shared with his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010.

Why it matters

The death of Katherine Short, a mental health advocate and licensed clinical social worker, is a tragic loss for her family and the broader community. Martin Short has previously spoken about the importance of his children being close, and this event highlights the challenges that even high-profile families can face with mental health and grief.

The details

According to reports, the Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call at Katherine Short's home on Monday evening for a possible suicide. When authorities arrived, they found a deceased female. Katherine Short was one of three children that Martin Short shared with his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010. Katherine Short had a bachelor's degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University and a master's in social work from the University of Southern California. She worked in private practice as a licensed clinical social worker and was also involved with the charity Bring Change 2 Mind.

  • On Monday, February 25, 2026, at 6:43 p.m. PT, a call came into Katherine Short's address for a possible suicide.
  • When LAPD and medics arrived, they found Katherine Short deceased.

The players

Martin Short

An actor known for his roles in films and TV shows such as 'Three Amigos', 'Father of the Bride', and 'Saturday Night Live'.

Katherine Short

The daughter of actor Martin Short, who was a mental health advocate and licensed clinical social worker.

Nancy Dolman

The late wife of Martin Short, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010.

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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.”

— Martin Short's representative (ABC News)

The takeaway

The tragic death of Katherine Short, a mental health advocate and daughter of actor Martin Short, highlights the ongoing challenges that even high-profile families can face with mental health and grief. This event serves as a somber reminder of the importance of mental health support and resources within communities.