Martin Short’s Daughter Katherine Dies at 42, leaving her family, friends, and the mental health community in deep shock. The Short family confirmed the heartbreaking news on Monday, February 23, 2026, asking for privacy during this incredibly difficult time.
“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,” the family said in a statement.
📞 If you or someone you need help: Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), available 24/7. You are not alone.
Who Was Katherine Hartley Short?
Unlike her famous father, Katherine chose a quiet life. Furthermore, she dedicated it entirely to helping others. She worked as a licensed clinical social worker in Los Angeles, running her own private practice. She also worked part-time at Amae Health, a psychiatry-led outpatient clinic, and volunteered with Bring Change 2 Mind, a charity focused on youth mental health and ending stigma.
Katherine Short: Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Katherine Hartley Short |
| Age at Passing | 42 years old |
| Date of Passing | Monday, February 23, 2026 |
| Location | Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles |
| Education | BA – NYU (2006); MSW – USC (2010) |
| Profession | Licensed Clinical Social Worker |
| Adopted by | Martin Short & Nancy Dolman |
| Siblings | Oliver Patrick (39), Henry Hayter (36) |
| Mother | Nancy Dolman – died of cancer, 2010 |
A Father Who Knows Grief All Too Well
Martin Short has faced enormous loss throughout his life. He lost his older brother in an accident when he was just 12. Then, by age 20, both of his parents had passed away. Additionally, his beloved wife, Nancy Dolman, died of ovarian cancer in 2010 after nearly 30 years of marriage.
Despite these losses, Short once said: “By surviving all that and continuing on, I developed muscles to handle the disappointments in life.” Today, however, he faces the unimaginable grief of losing a child.
Her Legacy: Fighting for Mental Health
Ironically, Katherine spent her career fighting the very battle that ultimately claimed her. Her work touched countless lives through:
- Community outreach and family support groups
- Peer support and psychotherapy services
- Youth mental health advocacy with Bring Change 2 Mind
- Private therapy sessions for individuals and families
Martin Short’s Daughter Katherine dies at 42, and as the world mourns, her story reminds us why mental health conversations matter. Moreover, it reminds us that even those who dedicate their lives to helping others can silently struggle. Therefore, check on the people around you. Reach out. And remember: help is always available at 988, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
