Updated: February 25, 2026
Just days ago, the entertainment world learned of the sudden passing of Katherine Hartley Short, the eldest daughter of iconic actor and comedian Martin Short. Reports confirm she died on February 23, 2026, at her home in the Hollywood Hills, with sources indicating it was by suicide from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. She was just 42 years old.
Martin’s representative released a poignant statement: “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.”
This comes after years of Katherine maintaining a low profile despite her famous father. She was known for her compassionate work helping others through difficult times.
Table of Contents
Who Was Katherine Short? A Life Dedicated to Helping Others
Katherine Elizabeth Short (sometimes referred to as Katherine Hartley Short) was born on December 3, 1983. She was the first child adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, in the early 1980s.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Gender Sexuality Studies from New York University in 2006, Katherine went on to complete a master’s in social work at the University of Southern California around 2010—the same year her mother sadly passed away from ovarian cancer.
- Career highlights:
- Licensed clinical social worker and therapist in Los Angeles
- Specialized in supporting people with grief, trauma, and mental health challenges
- Reportedly used a service dog in later years to assist with her own mental health needs
She rarely sought the spotlight, appearing occasionally at events with her dad but focusing on a meaningful, private life of service.
Martin Short’s Family: Three Adopted Children and a Legacy of Love
Martin Short and Nancy Dolman, married for 30 years until her death in 2010, built their family through adoption. They chose not to have biological children but created a close-knit unit with three kids who have largely stayed out of Hollywood.
Here’s a quick overview of the Short children:
| Child Name | Birth Year | Age (as of 2026) | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Katherine Hartley Short | 1983 | 42 (at passing) | Eldest; social worker/therapist; passed away Feb 2026 |
| Oliver Patrick Short | 1986 | 39-40 | Worked in film/TV production; Notre Dame grad; coached women’s ice hockey |
| Henry Hayter Short | 1989 | 36-37 | Pursued paths outside entertainment; Notre Dame alum |
The family has faced profound grief before—Nancy’s cancer battle and now this unimaginable loss. Martin has often spoken warmly about his kids in interviews, joking that he tried (and failed) to push them into show business. Instead, they carved their own paths in helping professions and creative fields.
Remembering Katherine and Supporting Mental Health
Katherine’s story reminds us how mental health struggles can touch any family, even those in the public eye. She dedicated her career to aiding others with similar challenges, leaving a legacy of empathy and care.
- Reach out if you’re struggling—resources like suicide prevention hotlines (in the US: 988) are available 24/7.
- Celebrities like Martin Short have shown vulnerability in grief, helping reduce stigma around loss and mental health.
In tough times, the Short family’s request for privacy is understandable. Our thoughts go out to Martin, Oliver, Henry, and everyone who loved Katherine.
Conclusion: A Father’s Enduring Strength Amid Heartbreak
Martin Short, at 75, continues to bring laughter through projects like Only Murders in the Building, but behind the humor lies a man who’s endured immense personal sorrow—from losing his wife to now his daughter. Katherine’s light, as her family described, touched many lives quietly but deeply.
This moment calls for compassion rather than speculation. May the Short family find peace, and may Katherine’s memory inspire more kindness and mental health awareness in the world. Rest in peace, Katherine.