It is with deep sadness that we report the passing of Katherine Short, daughter of beloved actor and comedian Martin Short. Katherine tragically took her own life at her Hollywood Hills home at the age of 42.
While her father’s life has been lived in the bright lights of the entertainment industry, Katherine chose a path focused on quiet compassion, dedicating her professional life to social work and mental health advocacy. Her passing is a profound loss not only to her family but to the community she served.
Here is a look at Katherine’s life, her impactful work, and the legacy of light she leaves behind.

At a Glance: Katherine Short
| Detail | Information |
| Name | Katherine Hartley Short |
| Age | 42 |
| Profession | Social Worker & Mental Health Advocate |
| Education | Bachelor’s from New York University (NYU), Master’s from the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work |
| Parents | Martin Short and the late Nancy Dolman |
A Career Rooted in Empathy
Katherine was the eldest of Martin Short’s three children with his wife of 30 years, Nancy Dolman, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010. Instead of pursuing the spotlight, Katherine dedicated her life to helping others navigate their most difficult moments.
After completing her undergraduate studies at NYU, she went on to earn her Master’s in Social Work from USC. She worked as a dedicated social worker in Los Angeles, remaining largely out of the public eye save for a few red-carpet appearances alongside her father over the years.
Her dedication to mental health extended far beyond her daily career. She was actively involved with Bring Change to Mind, a national nonprofit organization that works tirelessly to dismantle the stigmas surrounding mental illness, encourage open dialogue, and provide crucial support programs for youth and adults alike.
A Grieving Family
The Short family released a statement expressing their heartbreak over the sudden loss:
“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 tragedy marks the second profound loss for Martin Short in recent weeks, following the passing of his longtime friend and collaborator Catherine O’Hara last month. Our deepest condolences go out to the Short family and all who knew Katherine during this unimaginably difficult time.

Mental Health Resources & Support
If you or someone you love is struggling, in crisis, or experiencing emotional distress, please know that you are not alone and immediate help is available.
- Call or Text: Reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing or texting 988. It is free, completely confidential, and available 24/7/365.
- Chat Online: Visit the 988 Lifeline website to connect directly with a trained crisis counselor via web chat.
- Global Support: If you are located outside the United States, please contact your local emergency services or a national suicide prevention hotline in your region.
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