Martin Short’s Daughter Katherine Short Dead at 42

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Content warning: This story discusses suicide.

Martin Short is weathering an unimaginable tragedy.

I’m absolutely heartbroken. I found out that Steve Martin’s daughter, Katherine Short, passed away. She was his only child with his late wife, Nancy Dolman, and was only 42. It’s just… devastating. I’ve followed Steve’s career for years, and to hear about this loss… it’s awful. My heart goes out to him and everyone who knew her.

Martin Short’s representative confirmed the sad passing of Katherine Hartley Short on February 24th, telling The Hollywood Reporter that the family is heartbroken and requests privacy. She was loved by everyone and will be fondly remembered for her positive spirit and the happiness she shared.

Katherine, as reported by law enforcement to TMZ, was found dead at her home in the Hollywood Hills on February 24th, and it appears she died by suicide.

TopMob News has reached out to Martin for comment but hasn’t heard back.

Katherine was the eldest of Martin and Nancy’s three children, followed by her brothers Oliver, 39, and Henry, 36. She passed away 15 years after her mother, Nancy—an actress and singer—died from ovarian cancer at the age of 58.

In October 2012, Martin told The Guardian that the last two years had been difficult for his children. He explained that people often pretend tragedies won’t happen to them or their families, but when they do, there’s a mix of small gains and inevitable suffering – it’s just a part of life, and not entirely unexpected.

While her parents worked in entertainment, Katherine chose a different career, becoming a licensed clinical social worker.

Let me tell you a little about my background. I started with a Bachelor’s degree from NYU – I actually studied psychology and gender sexuality, which really shaped how I view the world. Then, I continued my education at USC, earning a Master’s in Social Work in 2010. That degree gave me the tools to really understand people and help them live their best lives – something I’m passionate about to this day!

After completing her master’s degree, Katherine spent four years at UCLA’s Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital. There, she became highly skilled in helping people through crises, providing therapy both individually and in groups, connecting clients with helpful resources, advocating for their needs, and supporting their families – particularly those dealing with serious mental health issues or substance abuse, according to her professional profile.

I followed her career so closely! After finishing everything else, she started working at the Camden Center, this amazing mental health clinic out in West L.A. But even that wasn’t enough, you know? She was driven. She eventually opened her own private practice, which I always knew she would. It was just incredible to watch her build that!

Martin jokingly recalled on Conan in 2012 that his kids weren’t interested in show business, but he encouraged them anyway. He described jokingly making them do laps every morning, standing on the balcony with his coffee and playfully yelling, ‘Quitter! Do it again!’

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2026-02-25 00:17