What Happened
Katherine Hartley Short, the eldest daughter of comedian Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, has died at the age of 42. A representative for Martin Short confirmed the tragic news, stating, “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.” Law enforcement sources reported that she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at her Hollywood Hills home on February 23, 2026.
Why It Matters
The passing of Katherine Short has sent shockwaves through the entertainment community, highlighting the personal grief faced by Martin Short, who has previously navigated significant loss, including the death of his wife in 2010. Katherine was known for her work in mental health advocacy, having been involved with the charity Bring Change 2 Mind, which promotes conversations about mental health among young people.
What’s Next
In the wake of this tragedy, the Short family is requesting privacy as they mourn their loss. Katherine is survived by her two younger brothers, Henry and Oliver. The family’s representative emphasized Katherine’s impact on those around her, stating she will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.
