Friday, April 3, 2026

Martin Short’s Daughter Katherine Short Passes Away at 42

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WARNING: This article contains references to suicide.

Katherine Short, the daughter of renowned Canadian actor Martin Short and his late wife Nancy, has passed away at the age of 42.

A spokesperson for the entertainer, who hails from Hamilton, confirmed the sad news to CBC News, stating, “We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Katherine Hartley Short.”

The Short family is mourning this devastating loss and has requested privacy during this difficult time. Katherine was cherished by many and will be remembered for the happiness and positivity she brought into the world.

Martin Short took to Facebook to pay tribute to his daughter, expressing, “Katherine was the shining light in our lives, radiating warmth, kindness, and a joy that touched everyone she encountered.”

Katherine is survived by her brothers, Henry and Oliver. Her mother passed away in 2010 after battling ovarian cancer.

Woman in a white dress stands between two young men in suits
In this image, Short’s children, Henry, Katherine, and Oliver (from left to right), are pictured attending the opening night of Martin Short’s musical, Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me, in New York in 2006. (Diane Bondareff/The Associated Press )

Katherine was discovered deceased at her residence in Hollywood Hills on Monday evening. Various media sources, including TMZ, which initially reported the incident, have indicated that Katherine’s death was a result of suicide, as per information from the Los Angeles Police Department.

Despite not being part of the entertainment industry, Katherine was frequently seen accompanying her father to showbiz events.

Martin Short had a live comedy show scheduled with his co-star Steve Martin for the upcoming weekend in Milwaukee, which has now been postponed, along with two shows planned for Minneapolis on Saturday, as confirmed by the respective venues.


If you or someone you know is in distress, here are some resources for support:

If you suspect someone may be at risk of suicide, it is important to have a conversation with them. The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention highlights these warning signs:

  • Expressions of suicidal thoughts.
  • Increased use of substances.
  • Feelings of purposelessness.
  • Heightened anxiety levels.
  • Sense of being trapped.
  • Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness.
  • Withdrawal from social interactions.

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