Show summary Hide summary
Martin Short’s family is mourning after the sudden death of his daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, who was 42. The news has reverberated through Hollywood and beyond as details emerge about what happened and who she was.
Authorities say she died in Hollywood Hills
Los Angeles sources say Katherine was found at her home in the Hollywood Hills Monday evening. Reports indicate the discovery followed a 911 call.
Christina Haack stuns in cream crochet bikini: responds to fourth engagement rumors
Knicks superfan Ben Stiller skips Oscars to watch gritty win over Warriors
The Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed crews responded to a reported shooting at the property at about 6:41 p.m. local time. Media outlets report the death was an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Local reports that first circulated the news described the scene and the response time, and the family has not released additional details about the circumstances.
Family statement and request for privacy
A representative for Martin Short released a brief statement saying the family is “devastated” and asking for privacy during their grief. The statement described Katherine as someone who brought “light and joy” to those around her.
The Short family has asked the public and press to respect their privacy at this time.
Who Katherine Short was: education and career
Academic background
Katherine earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006. She later completed a master’s degree in social work at the University of Southern California in 2010.
Work in mental health
Professionally, Katherine practiced as a social worker. She split her time between private practice and part-time work with Amae Health, a community-focused psychotherapy clinic.
She was also connected to mental health advocacy efforts, including work with Bring Change 2 Mind, an organization that aims to reduce stigma around mental illness.
Family background and public life
Katherine was the adopted daughter of comedian and actor Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman. Dolman died of cancer in 2010. The couple also adopted two sons: Oliver Patrick and Henry Hayter.
Although Katherine generally kept a low public profile, she appeared with her father at several events over the years.
- 2003 — An after-party for the Los Angeles production of “The Producers”
- 2005 — A New York Restoration Project event hosted by Bette Midler
- 2021 — A pre-Emmys gathering in West Hollywood
- 2023 — Katherine’s 40th birthday celebration at Grand Master Recorders in Hollywood
Public reaction and media coverage
News outlets and social media quickly shared the family’s statement and details from law enforcement. Coverage has focused on both the facts of the incident and Katherine’s professional work in mental health.
Friends and colleagues remember her for compassion and commitment to helping others.
Support resources for anyone in crisis
If this story raises personal concerns, help is available. In the United States, people in crisis can call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Trained counselors are available 24/7 to provide free and confidential support.
