The Short family has requested privacy following the death of Katherine Hartley Short, the eldest daughter of comedian Martin Short, at the age of 42.
A representative for the family confirmed her passing on Tuesday, stating: “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.”
The statement continued: “Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”
The 42-year-old was one of three children adopted by the Only Murders in the Building star and his late wife Nancy Dolman.
Martin and Katherine Short in 1989 | GETTY
The Los Angeles County coroner has confirmed to People magazine that Katherine died by suicide.
Police officers arrived at her Hollywood Hills residence at approximately 7 pm on Monday in response to a welfare check request.
According to Lapd sources, a friend had grown worried after not hearing from her for more than 24 hours.
Officers discovered a note on the door before finding Katherine deceased inside the property.
Martin and Katherine Short in 1998 | GETTYThe Los Angeles Fire Department had also responded to the call at 6:41 pm that evening.
Law enforcement sources have indicated she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Katherine dedicated her career to mental health support, working as a licensed clinical social worker with her own private practice.
She earned her undergraduate degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University in 2006, later completing a master’s in social work at the University of Southern California in 2010.
Katherine Short was found dead at her home
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GETTYDuring her graduate studies, she gained experience at the pro bono law firm Public Counsel and the West LA Veterans Administration.
Her professional career included positions at Ucla’s Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital and Camden Center.
She also provided counselling and peer support at Amae Health whilst volunteering with the mental health charity Bring Change 2 Mind.
Mr Short has postponed his upcoming comedy performance with Steve Martin in the wake of the tragedy.
The Pabst Theater Group announced on February 24 that the show originally scheduled for February 27 in Milwaukee would be rescheduled.
“Tickets will be honoured for a future rescheduled date,” the venue stated.
Fans of the comedian quickly flooded social media with messages of support and condolences after the tragic news broke.
“So sorry for your loss Mr Short,” one fan wrote on X, while another said: “Mr Short, I am deeply sorry for the loss of your daughter. Wishing you and your family strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time.”
Martin Short has postponed his upcoming comedy performance
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GETTY
A third wrote: “My heart goes out to the Short family! Please remember the good times and know that you are loved!” Another added: “Everyone is fighting a battle you know nothing about…”
One person also asked: “How does one deal with this? How do you just go on? The amount of heartbreak is unimaginable.
The family has endured significant loss previously, with Katherine’s mother Nancy Dolman dying from ovarian cancer in 2010 after 30 years of marriage to the comedian.
Speaking to The Guardian in 2012, Mr Short reflected on grief: “It’s been a tough two years for my children. [Death] is the thing of life that we live in denial about.”
For emotional support, you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
