Who Was Katherine Short? Social Activist & Martin Short's Daughter Dies at 42

Actor and comedian Martin Short’s eldest daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, a 42-year-old woman of Canadian origin, has died by suicide, as reported by the law enforcement agency. Her body was found in her residence in the Hollywood Hills area of Los Angeles on the evening of February 23.

The call to the residence was answered by the Los Angeles Police Department and the Fire Department shortly after 6 p.m. local time.

According to law enforcement reports, Katherine Short died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office officially ruled the death a suicide.

In a statement, her family said that they were ‘devastated by this loss’. They added that Katherine was ‘beloved by all’ and will be remembered for the joy she brought to those who knew her.

Who Was Katherine Short?

Katherine Short was born on December 3, 1983, and was later adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, early in her life.

She was the eldest of three children; her younger brothers are Oliver Patrick Short and Henry Hayter Short. Dolman, her mother, who was a Canadian actress and singer, died in 2010 of ovarian cancer.

Katherine kept a private life that was centred on mental health advocacy. She had a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University, as well as a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California.

She was an authorised clinical social worker and has worked in the Los Angeles area, including private practice and part-time employment at mental health clinics.

Advocacy and Public Life

Katherine was also involved in mental health outreach programs and contributed to organisations such as Amae Health and the non-profit organisation Bring Change 2 Mind, which aims to decrease the stigma associated with mental illness.

Although she came from a famous family, she made rare public appearances with her father over the years. Although the authorities and the family continue to stress the importance of mental health support for those who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts, there was no information on the circumstances surrounding her death.