Hey there, if you’re a fan of Martin Short—the quick-witted legend from Saturday Night Live, Father of the Bride, and lately stealing scenes in Only Murders in the Building—you might wonder about the quieter side of his life. Beyond the laughs and red-carpet charm, Marty (as friends call him) has always been a devoted family man. He and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, built a loving home with three adopted children who stayed mostly out of the spotlight. Sadly, recent events have brought renewed attention to his family.
In this post, we’ll dive into who Martin Short’s children are, their backgrounds, and how they’ve shaped his world. Let’s explore this heartfelt part of his story.
Table of Contents
Martin Short’s Marriage and Path to Parenthood
Martin Short married Nancy Dolman in 1980, and theirs was a solid, 30-year partnership full of love and laughter until her passing from ovarian cancer in 2010. Nancy stepped away from her own comedy career to focus on raising their family, creating a stable, nurturing environment away from Hollywood’s glare.
The couple chose adoption for parenthood, welcoming three kids over the years. Martin has often shared how fatherhood grounded him, especially after personal losses. He once described his kids as his greatest source of strength and joy, emphasizing close sibling bonds—just like he had growing up in a big Canadian family.
Meet the Three Children: Katherine, Oliver, and Henry
Martin and Nancy adopted their children in the 1980s, giving them a warm, supportive upbringing in Los Angeles.
- Katherine Elizabeth Short (born December 3, 1983) was the eldest and a truly compassionate soul. She earned a bachelor’s in psychology and gender studies from NYU, followed by a master’s in social work from USC. Katherine built a career as a licensed clinical social worker in Los Angeles, helping people through tough times like grief and mental health challenges. Tragically, in February 2026, the family announced her passing at age 42. Their statement remembered her as someone “beloved by all” who brought “light and joy” to the world. It’s a heartbreaking loss that has touched many.
- Oliver Patrick Short (born April 29, 1986), the middle child, followed a creative but behind-the-scenes path. A University of Notre Dame grad with a degree in film and television production, he’s worked in the industry—including roles at Warner Bros. and other production spots. Oliver has stayed low-key, focusing on family and career without chasing fame.
- Henry Hayter Short (born August 4, 1989), the youngest, also attended Notre Dame. He’s pursued a career as a veterinary assistant, showing a caring side toward animals. Martin has fondly mentioned Henry’s adventures, like backpacking through Europe, highlighting his independent spirit.
All three siblings attended college (with the boys at Notre Dame), and none stepped into the entertainment limelight like their dad—proving they carved their own paths.
Martin Short Children Overview Table
Here’s a quick snapshot of Martin Short’s children for easy reference:
| Child Name | Birth Date | Age (as of 2026) | Education/ Career Highlights | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Katherine Elizabeth Short | December 3, 1983 | 42 (deceased Feb 2026) | NYU (BA Psychology/Gender Studies), USC (MSW); Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Eldest; remembered for her kindness and light |
| Oliver Patrick Short | April 29, 1986 | 39-40 | University of Notre Dame (Film/TV Production); Worked in TV/film production (e.g., Warner Bros.) | Middle child; industry professional behind the scenes |
| Henry Hayter Short | August 4, 1989 | 36-37 | University of Notre Dame; Veterinary Assistant | Youngest; adventurous, animal-loving career |
This table sums up the key details—adopted siblings who grew up close and supported each other.
Grandchildren and Martin’s Joy as a Grandpa
Even amid sorrow, Martin has found bright spots in family life. He now has three young grandsons—Theo, Grayson, and Campbell—from his sons. In recent chats (like on podcasts in 2025), he called grandfatherhood “magical,” sharing how the little ones bring pure delight. Names like Theo (nearing 4), Grayson (around 2), and Campbell (just turned 2) pop up in his stories, showing how the family legacy continues with new generations of giggles and chaos.
Martin often says his kids (and now grandkids) keep him grounded—reminding him life’s real magic happens at home, not just on screen.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Martin Short’s children represent the private, heartfelt core of a man who’s made millions laugh for decades. Through adoption, he and Nancy created a family rooted in love, education, and kindness. The recent loss of Katherine reminds us how fragile life can be, yet the enduring bonds—with Oliver, Henry, and now the grandkids—highlight resilience and joy.
In a world obsessed with celebrity drama, Martin’s story stands out for its authenticity. He’s not just a comic genius; he’s a dad and grandpa who cherishes every moment. Our thoughts are with the Short family during this difficult time.
Updated: February 25, 2026, 08:41 AM IST