Updated: February 25, 2026
The recent passing of Katherine Short has brought renewed attention to her father, the beloved comedian and actor Martin Short. As the world mourns this heartbreaking loss, many are curious about the family ties that shaped her life. Martin Short, known for his quick wit on shows like Saturday Night Live, Only Murders in the Building, and countless films, has always spoken warmly about fatherhood. Let’s explore who Katherine Short’s father is, their relationship, and the family context in a respectful way.
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Who Is Katherine Short’s Father?
Katherine Short’s father is none other than the iconic Canadian-American entertainer Martin Short. Born on March 26, 1950, Martin has built an incredible career spanning comedy, acting, and even voice work. He adopted Katherine along with her two brothers during his 30-year marriage to actress Nancy Dolman.
Martin and Nancy welcomed three children through adoption: Katherine (the eldest), Oliver Patrick, and Henry Hayter. Katherine was born on December 3, 1983, and grew up in a loving home that balanced Hollywood glamour with grounded family values. Sadly, Nancy passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010, leaving Martin to navigate single parenthood while continuing his thriving career.
Despite his fame, Martin has often described fatherhood as one of his greatest joys. In past interviews, he shared how becoming a dad gave him new perspective and endless pride in his kids’ accomplishments.
Katherine Short: Life and Career Beyond the Spotlight
While her father enjoyed the limelight, Katherine chose a path focused on helping others. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University (NYU) in 2006, followed by a master’s in social work from the University of Southern California (USC) in 2010.
- Professional journey: Katherine worked as a licensed clinical social worker in Los Angeles, including roles at UCLA’s Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital and the Camden Center’s dual-diagnosis program. She later ran her own private practice and contributed to Amae Health.
- Advocacy work: She supported Bring Change 2 Mind, a charity dedicated to reducing stigma around mental health.
- Personal style: Katherine largely stayed out of the public eye, appearing occasionally at events with her dad, like red carpets or family celebrations.
Her life reflected quiet strength, compassion, and dedication to mental health—values that touched many.
Martin Short as a Father: Insights and Family Moments
Martin Short has always been open about the profound impact his children had on him. He often called fatherhood a source of “great joy” and shared funny, heartfelt stories about raising Katherine, Oliver, and Henry.
Here are some key highlights of their family dynamic:
- The family prioritized privacy and normalcy despite Martin’s celebrity status.
- Katherine attended events with her dad over the years, including Vanity Fair parties and comedy specials.
- Martin navigated profound losses, including his own parents early in life and his wife’s passing, yet remained devoted to his kids.
- He has spoken about the pride he felt watching his daughter pursue a meaningful career in social work.
Tragically, the family faced another immense loss with Katherine’s passing on February 24, 2026, at age 42. In a statement, the family expressed: “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.”
Key Facts About Katherine Short and Her Family
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Father | Martin Short (born March 26, 1950) |
| Mother | Nancy Dolman (deceased 2010) |
| Birth Date | December 3, 1983 |
| Age at Passing | 42 (February 24, 2026) |
| Siblings | Oliver Patrick Short (born 1986), Henry Hayter Short (born 1989) |
| Education | BA from NYU (2006), MSW from USC (2010) |
| Career | Licensed Clinical Social Worker, private practice, mental health advocate |
| Notable Charity | Bring Change 2 Mind |
| Adoption Status | Adopted by Martin Short and Nancy Dolman |
Conclusion: Honoring a Meaningful Legacy
Katherine Short’s father, Martin Short, represents not just Hollywood success but a devoted family man who cherished his role as a parent. Though Katherine lived a private life dedicated to healing others, her story highlights the deep bonds within the Short family. In this time of sorrow, the focus remains on remembering her kindness, her contributions to mental health, and the love she shared with her father and brothers.
Our thoughts are with Martin Short and his family. If you’re struggling, please reach out—help is available through resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.