Conan O'Brien Pays Tribute to Martin Short at Academy Awards 2026

O'Brien sends heartfelt message to his longtime friend following the death of Short's daughter.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 8:31pm

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Comedian and host Conan O'Brien ended the Academy Awards 2026 ceremony with a brief but emotional shoutout to his longtime friend Martin Short, whose daughter Katherine Hartley Short died by suicide last month at the age of 42. O'Brien expressed his love and support for Short as he signed off from the stage at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

Why it matters

The tribute from O'Brien highlights the close friendship between the two comedians and the importance of supporting each other during difficult times. Short has largely stayed out of the public eye since his daughter's passing, making O'Brien's message all the more meaningful.

The details

As O'Brien wrapped up the Academy Awards ceremony, he said, "It's been an honor and a joy. We love you, Marty Short, good night." This came weeks after Short's daughter Katherine died by suicide on February 23 at the age of 42. A representative for Short said the family was "devastated by this loss" and asked for privacy.

  • The Academy Awards 2026 ceremony took place on March 15, 2026.
  • Katherine Hartley Short died by suicide on February 23, 2026.

The players

Conan O'Brien

A comedian and host who ended the Academy Awards 2026 ceremony with a heartfelt message for his longtime friend Martin Short.

Martin Short

A veteran comedian whose daughter Katherine Hartley Short died by suicide last month at the age of 42.

Katherine Hartley Short

The daughter of Martin Short who died by suicide on February 23, 2026 at the age of 42.

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What they’re saying

“It's been an honor and a joy. We love you, Marty Short, good night.”

— Conan O'Brien, Comedian and host (E! News)

What’s next

Short has postponed a comedy show he was scheduled to perform with longtime collaborator Steve Martin, with organizers confirming that tickets would be honored for a rescheduled date.

The takeaway

O'Brien's heartfelt tribute to his friend Martin Short during a high-profile event like the Academy Awards demonstrates the importance of supporting one another through grief and difficult times, even in the public eye.