Over the decades, Martin Short built a celebrated career spanning film, television and theater, starring in beloved comedies such as Three Amigos and Father of the Bride and becoming one of the most recognizable faces in comedy.
Now, the actor is facing a devastating personal loss. His daughter, Katherine Elizabeth Short, has died at the age of 42.
“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. 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,” per a family shared to People from the Short family.
On Monday, Feb. 23, the Los Angeles Fire Department responded to a call at a home in the Hollywood Hills around 6:41 p.m. involving a woman believed to be about 41 years old. The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed to PEOPLE that the call was related to a possible suicide.
Katherine Elizabeth Short was adopted by Martin Short and his late wife of 30 years, Nancy Dolman, who died of ovarian cancer in 2010. The couple also adopted two sons, Oliver Patrick, 39, and Henry Hayter, 36.
Katherine worked as a licensed clinical social worker in private practice. She also worked part-time at Amae Health, where she provided community outreach, family support groups, peer support and psychotherapy. According to PEOPLE, she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006. She later received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010.
Although she largely stayed out of the spotlight, Katherine occasionally attended public events with her father, including The Producers afterparty in 2003 and the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in February 2011.
Martin Short is a Canadian actor, comedian and writer known for his energetic performances and sharp comedic timing. Born March 26, 1950, in Hamilton, Ontario, he first gained attention on the sketch comedy series SCTV before joining Saturday Night Live for the 1984–85 season, where he created memorable characters like Ed Grimley.
Short went on to star in popular films including Three Amigos, Innerspace and Father of the Bride. He has also enjoyed a successful stage career, earning a Tony Award nomination for his Broadway work, and built a strong television presence over the years.
In recent years, he has introduced himself to a new generation through the Hulu hit Only Murders in the Building, starring alongside Steve Martin and Selena Gomez.
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