She was found at her home in the Hollywood Hills on Monday evening in what authorities described as an apparent suicide.
In a statement, a representative for the Only Murders in the Building star shared the family’s grief: “It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. The Short family is devastated and asks for privacy during this incredibly difficult time. Katherine was deeply loved and will be remembered for the warmth and light she brought into the lives of others.”
According to reports, Katherine was discovered at her Los Angeles residence around 6 p.m. Law enforcement sources indicated there were no signs of foul play.
One of three children adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, Katherine largely stayed out of the public spotlight. Still, she occasionally accompanied her father to industry events and red carpets. She pursued higher education at New York University, earning a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender and sexuality studies in 2006, and later obtained a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010.
Katherine built a career as a licensed clinical social worker, working in private practice and dedicating herself to mental health advocacy. She also contributed part-time to a clinic focused on community outreach, peer support, and psychotherapy. Additionally, she was involved with Bring Change to Mind, a nonprofit organization committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and fostering supportive, open conversations among young people.
Her mother, Nancy Dolman, met Martin Short in 1972 during a production of Godspell. They married in 1980 and adopted Katherine along with her brothers, Henry and Oliver. Dolman died from ovarian cancer in 2010 at the age of 58 — a loss Short later described as one of the most difficult periods of his life.
Martin Short is currently touring alongside his longtime friend and co-star Steve Martin, with upcoming performances scheduled in the coming days.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. In the United States, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
