Katherine Short, Daughter of Martin Short, Dies at 42

Katherine Short, the eldest daughter of actor and comedian Martin Short, died Monday, Feb. 24, 2026, at her home in the Hollywood Hills. She was 42. Authorities said she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. No foul play is suspected.

Her death marks a devastating loss for the Short family and for the many people Katherine supported throughout her career as a licensed clinical social worker. Known for her empathy, advocacy, and commitment to mental health care, she built a professional life centered on service rather than the spotlight attached to her family name.

Katherine Short: What Authorities Have Confirmed

First responders from the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at Katherine’s home shortly after a 911 call on Monday evening. Officials confirmed she had died before their arrival. An investigation is underway, though authorities emphasized that the circumstances point to no outside involvement.

News of her death spread quickly across social media and entertainment outlets, prompting a wave of condolences for the Short family. Mental health organizations also issued statements recognizing Katherine’s work and urging continued attention to mental health awareness and support.

A representative for the family released a brief statement late Monday: “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.”

A Career Built on Service

Although she was born into a well-known Hollywood family, Katherine chose a path grounded in helping others. She earned her bachelor’s degree from New York University in 2006 and completed her master’s in social work at the University of Southern California in 2010. Early in her career, she worked with underserved communities through Public Counsel and continued her clinical training at the West L.A. Veterans Administration.

Katherine later joined UCLA’s Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital, where she worked with patients managing complex mental health needs. She later launched her own private practice in Los Angeles and also worked part‑time with clinics like Amae Health, offering support to individuals and families facing complex diagnoses.

Her colleagues described her as warm, insightful and unwavering in her ethical commitment to patient care. Beyond her clinical work, Katherine volunteered with Bring Change to Mind, helping develop educational programs, lead community workshops, and mentor young advocates working to reduce stigma around mental illness.

A Family Facing Another Loss

Katherine was one of three children born to Martin Short and his late wife, actress Nancy Dolman, who died of ovarian cancer in 2010. The family has long been known for its closeness, something Martin Short has spoken about frequently in interviews. He often described parenting as his proudest achievement and credited his children with helping him navigate grief after Nancy’s death.

Katherine remained especially close with her father and her brothers, Oliver and Henry. Her death deepens a history of loss for the family, who are now leaning on one another and a wide circle of friends during an intensely difficult time.

Impact and What Comes Next

Katherine’s death has echoed throughout the mental health community, where her work left a meaningful and lasting mark. Organizations and colleagues have highlighted her contributions and stressed the need to continue conversations around mental health, access to care, and the importance of strong community support.

On social media, former patients, mentees and public figures shared stories about how Katherine encouraged them to seek help, pursue advocacy, or simply feel seen during difficult moments.

Martin Short was slated to appear at several shows with Steve Martin later this week, but venues now say it’s uncertain whether those performances will proceed in light of the family’s loss.

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