- Martin Short's daughter has died
- A family devastated by tragic loss
- Heartbreak in the Short family
Actor Martin Short has suffered a devastating loss: his eldest daughter, Katherine, has died in Los Angeles at the age of 42. According to reports, police were called to her home in the Hollywood Hills on Monday evening. The cause of death has been described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound, as reported by People, citing investigators.
In an official statement, the actor’s representative said the family is “devastated” and now asks above all for peace, privacy, and protection from the public as they come to terms with their loss.
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Official Words From the Short Family
“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” reads the statement from Martin Short’s spokesperson, published by People magazine.
It continues: “The Short family is devastated by this loss and asks for privacy at this time. Katherine will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world”
Eldest of Three Children and Dedicated Social Worker
Katherine was the eldest of three children adopted by the comedian and his wife, Nancy Dolman, who died in 2010. Professionally, she was dedicated to helping others. As a social worker in Los Angeles, she worked with the organization Bring Change 2 Mind, which focuses on reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.
According to People, it was important to her to provide those affected and their families with a safe space and to challenge social prejudices.
Academic Path Between New York and Los Angeles
After graduating from high school, Katherine studied at New York University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender and sexuality studies in 2006. She later attended the University of Southern California, completing a master’s degree in social work.
As reported by Variety, she initially worked at the renowned Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital at UCLA before going on to establish her own practice. Her professional path reflected a clear commitment: supporting people through difficult life situations and offering compassionate, professional care.
Early Loss of Mother and Close Family Ties
Katherine’s death is not the first profound loss for the Short family. Her mother, actress Nancy Dolman, died of ovarian cancer in 2010. In previous interviews, Martin Short spoke openly about how deeply this loss affected his children.
“It was absolutely horrible, obviously, and as sad as anything,” he said at the time, explaining that he told his children he believed their mother had been “zoomed into our souls.”
In addition to Katherine, the actor has two sons, Oliver and Henry.
If you are feeling overwhelmed or in crisis, please reach out to a healthcare professional or a support organization. Information about help services in many countries is available through Befrienders Worldwide.
