Katherine Short, Martin Short’s Daughter, Dies at 42

Katherine Short, the 42-year-old daughter of actor and comedian Martin Short, died on Monday at her home in the Hollywood Hills. “It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” a representative for the Only Murders in the Building star said in a statement. “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.”

Details of Her Death

Katherine was reportedly found dead on Monday evening around 6:41 p.m., according to the Los Angeles Fire Department as reported by People. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office confirmed on Tuesday, February 24, that her manner of death was suicide as reported by USA Today. The Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call of a possible suicide attempt at her home around 6:43 p.m. On February 23 according to USA Today.

A Life Dedicated to Social Work

One of three children adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, Katherine largely kept out of the public eye, though she occasionally attended events with her father. She received a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006 and a master’s in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010 as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.

Katherine worked as a licensed clinical social worker in Los Angeles, specializing in adoption, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, grief and loss, suicidality and relationship difficulties according to USA Today. She worked at UCLA’s Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital and for the Camden Center, a dual-diagnosis outpatient program as reported by People. She was likewise involved with Bring Change 2 Mind, a charity focused on mental health awareness as reported by People.

Family and Legacy

Katherine is survived by her younger brothers, Henry, and Oliver. Her mother, Nancy Dolman, died from ovarian cancer in 2010 as reported by Hello!. Martin Short and Dolman met in 1972 whereas working on a production of Godspell and married in 1980.

Martin Short is currently on a comedy tour with Steve Martin. The next show is scheduled for Friday in Milwaukee as reported by People.

Resources for Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. You can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 in the US, or by chatting at 988lifeline.org. In the UK and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or by emailing jo@samaritans.org or jo@samaritans.ie. In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline is 13 11 14. Additional international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.