The entertainment world was rocked by the tragic news of the death of Katherine Hartley Short, the 42-year-old daughter of Canadian-American comedic actor Martin Short. The woman's body was found on Monday evening in her home in Hollywood Hills. The deceased's family issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of the "light and joy." Due to the family tragedy, the artist has canceled upcoming performances scheduled as part of the tour with Steve Martin.

Tragic Event in Hollywood

The body of 42-year-old Katherine Short was found in her home; police suspect suicide by firearm.

Advocacy for Mental Health

The deceased was a respected social worker involved in the fight to destigmatize mental illness.

Canceled Comedy Tour

Martin Short and Steve Martin postponed upcoming performances in Milwaukee and Minneapolis due to mourning.

Katherine Hartley Short was found dead on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, around 6:00 PM local time. Los Angeles emergency services responded to a report of a probable self-inflicted injury in the upscale Hollywood Hills neighborhood. Upon arrival, paramedics pronounced the 42-year-old woman dead. While the coroner's office is conducting detailed investigations, preliminary findings indicate a probable suicide, however police have not yet officially confirmed the means or direct cause of death. Media reports have emerged about a 911 call recording in which a dispatcher can be heard stating an inability to enter the bedroom where the victim was located. Katherine Short was the eldest of three children adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who died in 2010. Unlike her famous father, Katherine shunned the spotlight, focusing on her professional and social work. She was a licensed clinical social worker, a graduate in psychology from New York University (NYU) and social work from the University of Southern California (USC). She was involved with the "Bring Change to Mind" foundation, which fights the stigmatization of people suffering from mental health disorders. Martin Short's family had previously faced traumatic experiences. In 2010, after thirty years of marriage, the actor lost his wife Nancy Dolman, who lost her battle with ovarian cancer. This event resonated widely in the Los Angeles artistic community.The death of Katherine prompted an immediate reaction in the actor's professional schedule. Martin Short, known for roles in films like "Father of the Bride" or the series "Only Murders in the Building," along with his longtime stage partner Steve Martin, decided to postpone the upcoming performances. The changes concern concerts in Milwaukee (February 27) and Minneapolis (February 28). Organizers have assured that tickets remain valid for new dates, which will be announced at a later time. The family appealed to the media and fans to respect their privacy during this extremely painful time. „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.” — Representative of the Short family

Mentioned People

  • Martin Short — Actor and comedian, father of the deceased Katherine Short.
  • Nancy Dolman — The late wife of Martin Short, who died in 2010, and mother of Katherine.
  • Steve Martin — Comedic actor, close friend and collaborator of Martin Short.
  • Katherine Hartley Short — Deceased daughter of Martin Short, social worker.