Tragic Loss: Martin Short's Daughter Katherine Short Passes Away at Age 42

Martin Short's daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, aged 42, has died by suicide, confirmed by a representative for Martin Short in a statement to Us Weekly on February 24, 2026. The family requested privacy and expressed deep grief over Katherine's passing, remembering her for the light and joy she brought.

Details of Her Passing

The Los Angeles Police Department responded to a possible suicide attempt in the Hollywood Hills on February 23, 2026. Katherine Short was found deceased, and the Los Angeles Medical Examiner's Office later confirmed her death as a suicide. She had left a note before her passing, found behind a locked door.

Katherine Hartley Short, the daughter of Martin Short and late wife Nancy Dolman, was the only daughter of the couple. She held a bachelor's degree from New York University and a master's in social work from the University of Southern California. Katherine worked as a licensed clinical social worker in Los Angeles, dedicating her efforts to mental health awareness.

Family and Neighbors' Recollections

Martin Short and Nancy Dolman adopted Katherine and her two brothers. Katherine's neighbor described her as friendly and outgoing, emphasizing her love for reading and gardening. She changed her name to Katherine Elizabeth Hartley in 2012 due to concerns about potential patient harassment.

Following Katherine's death, Martin Short postponed his comedy shows with Steve Martin. The Pabst Theater Group and the Orpheum Theatre announced rescheduling of show dates due to the unforeseen circumstances surrounding Katherine's passing.