Tragic Passing of Katherine Short: Martin Short's Daughter Confirmed to Have Died by Suicide

Katherine Short, the eldest daughter of comedian Martin Short, has tragically passed away at the age of 42. Confirmed by authorities, her death was ruled a suicide due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. This devastating loss follows the death of her mother, Nancy Dolman, in 2010. Katherine, who was a licensed clinical social worker, preferred a private life away from the entertainment industry, focusing on helping others with mental health challenges. Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time as they mourn her passing.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 12:23 IST

Katherine Short's Death Confirmed

The cause of Katherine Short's death has been officially determined. The eldest daughter of renowned comedian Martin Short and his late spouse Nancy Dolman was discovered deceased at her residence in Hollywood Hills on February 23. Authorities have confirmed that Katherine succumbed to a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Emergency responders arrived at her home shortly after 6:40 p.m. PT, where they found the 42-year-old unresponsive. Official sources have classified this incident as a suicide. This marks a second heartbreaking loss for Martin Short, who previously lost his wife to ovarian cancer in 2010. Together, Martin and Nancy adopted three children, including Katherine, leaving him with two sons, Oliver and Henry.

Details Surrounding Katherine Short's Death

Katherine Short's cause of death

On February 26, reports from Entertainment Weekly indicated that the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's office confirmed February 23 as the date of Katherine's passing. Authorities have also verified the manner of death as suicide, with the official cause recorded as a "gunshot wound" to the head, occurring at her residence. A statement from Martin Short's representative acknowledged Katherine's death at the age of 42, expressing the family's devastation and requesting privacy during this difficult time. The statement noted, "Katherine was cherished by many and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world." Initial reports indicated that the Los Angeles Fire Department received a call regarding a woman in her early 40s from a Hollywood Hills home at 6:41 p.m.

Who Was Katherine Short?

Who was Katherine Short?

Katherine was born in 1983 and graduated from New York University in 2006, earning a degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies. Unlike her father, she maintained a low profile and largely stayed out of the entertainment spotlight, resulting in limited public information about her life. Reports indicate that Katherine was a licensed clinical social worker, operating a private practice in Los Angeles where she assisted individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, personality disorders, grief, and relationship challenges. She was also an advocate for Bring Change to Mind, an organization focused on reducing the stigma surrounding mental health. While her father enjoyed fame, Katherine preferred a more private existence. Her last public appearance was in January 2020 at Craig's, a well-known eatery in West Hollywood.