The family of beloved comedian and actor Martin Short is mourning an unimaginable loss following the death of his daughter, Katherine Hartley Short. She was 42.
Found at Her Hollywood Hills Home
In a statement shared with People, the Short family confirmed the heartbreaking news:
“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.”
Emergency responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department were called to a residence in the Hollywood Hills on the evening of February 23. Authorities later confirmed that Katherine died by suicide. The news was first reported by TMZ, with additional confirmation from officials.
Her passing marks another profound chapter of grief for the family. Katherine was one of three children adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who died from ovarian cancer in 2010. Alongside Katherine, the couple raised two sons, Oliver Patrick and Henry Hayter.
A Career Devoted to Helping Others
Although she was the daughter of a widely recognized entertainer, Katherine chose a quieter path, dedicating her life to supporting others through mental health work.
A licensed clinical social worker, she worked in private practice and also held a part-time role at Amae Health, where her responsibilities included community outreach, peer support, facilitating family support groups, and providing psychotherapy.
Her educational background reflected that commitment. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006. She later completed her master’s degree in social work at University of Southern California in 2010.
Katherine also contributed to mental health advocacy initiatives, including involvement with Bring Change 2 Mind, an organization focused on reducing stigma and encouraging open dialogue about mental health, particularly among young people.
Friends and colleagues described her as compassionate and deeply committed to her work — someone who brought empathy into every space she entered.
A Private Life Within a Public Family
Despite her family’s public profile, Katherine largely remained out of the spotlight. She occasionally appeared alongside her father at select events over the years — including film premieres, theater gatherings, and the Vanity Fair Oscar Party — but she generally preferred privacy.
Her death comes after the family previously endured the loss of Nancy Dolman. In past interviews, Martin Short reflected on that period as deeply painful, noting that grief often confronts people in ways they are never fully prepared for.
Now, the Short family faces another profound and personal sorrow.
They have asked for privacy as they navigate this devastating time.
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. In the United States, you can call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support available 24/7. You are not alone.
