What to watch
Best streaming guide in the US
Katherine Short, the eldest daughter of actor and comedian Martin Short, has passed away at the age of 42.
Law enforcement and fire department personnel responded to her home in the Hollywood Hills on Monday, February 23, 2026, around 6:40 PM PT.
Authorities found her deceased at the scene, and officials have since confirmed that Katherine Short died by suicide.
Katherine Short worked as a social worker in Los Angeles and dedicated much of her time to philanthropy.
She actively supported the charity Bring Change 2 Mind, an organization focused on ending the stigma surrounding mental illness.
While she occasionally attended public events with Martin Short, she largely chose to live her life away from the spotlight.
She was the eldest of three children born to Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who passed away in 2010.
Colleagues and friends remember Katherine Short for her deep commitment to helping others through her professional work and charitable efforts.
Her dedication to mental health advocacy was a central part of her life, and she worked tirelessly to promote awareness and support for those in need.
The news of her passing has brought a wave of tributes from those who knew her as a compassionate and kind individual.
Martin Short has not yet released a personal statement regarding the loss of his daughter.
The actor has a scheduled performance with Steve Martin in Minneapolis this coming Saturday, but it remains unclear if he will proceed with the event.
Fans and members of the entertainment community have offered their condolences to the family during this incredibly difficult time.
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. You can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org in the United States and Canada. In the UK, you can call 111 or contact Samaritans at 116 123.
