Martin Short’s Daughter Katherine Short Dies at 42 in Apparent Suicide

24 February 2026

The entertainment world is mourning the sudden and heartbreaking death of Katherine Hartley Short, the eldest daughter of celebrated comedic actor Martin Short, who died at the age of 42 on February 23, 2026. Authorities in Los Angeles responded to a reported suicide at her Hollywood Hills home around 6:41 p.m. local time and discovered Katherine with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to law enforcement sources. Her passing was confirmed by her family in a statement that spoke to the deep grief felt by loved ones and asked for privacy during this devastating time. The family described Katherine as “beloved by all” and said she “will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”

Katherine was adopted by Martin Short and his late wife Nancy Dolman, a fellow performer whom he married in 1980 and who died of ovarian cancer in 2010 after thirty years together. Though she was the daughter of a Hollywood luminary, Katherine largely lived a life outside the glare of celebrity, choosing instead to pursue a career dedicated to helping others. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006, then went on to receive her master’s in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010. She became a licensed clinical social worker, offering psychotherapy and support through both private practice and part-time work at the Amae Health clinic, where she was known for her compassionate outreach.

In addition to her professional work, Katherine was actively involved with Bring Change 2 Mind, a nonprofit organisation focused on reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging open dialogue around mental health challenges. Her advocacy and practice reflected a deep commitment to supporting vulnerable people, including families, veterans and those navigating complex emotional landscapes. Friends and colleagues have remembered her for her empathy, warmth and willingness to listen, qualities that earned her respect within her community and among the people she served.

Though she kept a relatively private life, Katherine occasionally appeared with her father at public events over the years, including celebrations and industry gatherings. Their last widely reported outing together was in 2023 at a celebration for her 40th birthday in Hollywood, a joyful moment captured away from the pressures of the spotlight. She also joined him at other milestones in earlier years, reinforcing the family’s close bond despite her preference for a quieter life.

The news of Katherine’s passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans, fellow professionals and those touched by her work in mental health advocacy. Many have shared memories of her kindness and the positive impact she had on both clients and peers. Her death emphasises the ongoing necessity of support and compassion for those struggling with mental health issues, and the tragic loss has once again highlighted the importance of accessible resources and open conversations around emotional wellbeing.

Martin Short’s career has spanned decades and brought joy to audiences worldwide, yet his life has also been marked by profound personal loss. In addition to the death of his wife, he has spoken publicly about earlier tragedies within his own family and the resilience it has taken to navigate grief over the years. Katherine’s passing adds another painful chapter to that journey, and friends say that the actor has once again drawn on that inner strength even as he mourns.

In the wake of this sorrowful news, the Short family’s request for privacy is widely respected, as loved ones grieve not only the daughter and sister they have lost but also the meaningful life she lived in service of others. As tributes continue to reflect on Katherine’s legacy, her contributions to mental health care, her warmth of spirit and the lives she touched in both professional and personal spheres will stand as a testament to her character and the joy she brought to the world.