Martin Short's daughter Katherine dies at the age of 42

Katherine Short was a licensed clinical social worker who operated a private practice in Los Angeles with a specialization in adoption, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, grief and loss, suicide and relationship difficulties.

Published: February 24, 2026 5:43pm

The eldest daughter of Hollywood actor and comedian Martin Short died Tuesday at the age of 42-years-old, according to a representative for the family.

The representative did not include a cause of death for Katherine Short but asked the public to respect the family's privacy.

"It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short," the representative said in a statement to USA Today. "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."

Law enforcement sources told the Los Angeles Times that Katherine Short died by an apparent suicide. 

Katherine Short, who was adopted, was a licensed clinical social worker who operated a private practice in Los Angeles with a specialization in adoption, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, grief and loss, suicide, and relationship difficulties. 

She is survived by her father and two brothers, Oliver Patrick Short and Henry Hayter Short. Her mother, Nancy Dolman Short, died in 2010 from ovarian cancer. 

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