Martin Short Opens Up About His Daughter, Katherine's Suicide After 3 Months, 'Last Words To Me...'

Recently, actor and comedian, Martin Short opened up about his daughter, Katherine's tragic death and revealed her final words to him.

11 May 2026, 03:28 by Kriti Gupta · BollywoodShaadis

Much-loved actor and comedian, Martin Short, who is best known for Only Murders In The Building, has finally opened up about the tragic death of his daughter, Katherine Short. For those who do not know, Martin Short's 43-year-old daughter, committed suicide in February 2026, leaving the entire in shock. Now that Martin Short is grabbing attention for his documentary, Marty: Life Is Short, continue reading to know about what the actor has shared about his late daughter.

Martin Short describes his daughter’s death as a ‘nightmare’

Recently, actor, Martin Short appeared on the CBS Sunday Morning to promote the release of his documentary, Marty: Life Is Short. During the same, when he was asked about his late daughter, Katherine, Martin described it as a nightmare. The actor also recalled the demise of his wife, who passed away after a battle with cancer. Martin Short was quoted as saying:

"What it developed in me was this muscle of survival and handling grief and a perspective on it. You know, it’s been a nightmare for the family, but the understanding that mental health and cancer — like my wife — are both diseases, and sometimes with diseases, they are terminal."

Martin Short reveals his daughter, Katherine suffered with mental health issues

During the same conversation, Martin Short also mentioned that his daughter, Katherine had suffered with mental health issues; however, she tried her best to fight against it. Eventually, she gave up and ended up taking her life. He stated that Katherine’s last words reminded him of his wife, Nancy. In his words:

"My daughter fought for a long time with extreme mental health — borderline personality disorder, other things — and did the best she could until she couldn’t. So (Nancy’s) last words to me were ‘Martin, let me go,’ and what (Katherine) was just saying, ‘Dad, let me go.'"

Martin Short’s first appearance after daughter's death

For those who do not know, on May 6, 2026, Martin Short made his first appearance nearly three months after his daughter, Katherine’s death. If reports are to be believed, the actor and comedian had attended the premiere of his documentary in Los Angeles. He was joined by his two sons, Oliver and Henry. Apart from them, Martin also received support from his friends, Selena Gomez, Kate Hudson, Jimmy Kimmel and more.

Talking about Martin Short’s documentary, it is expected to focus on the actor’s personal life and tragedies he has faced. Reportedly, the documentary will feature several moments from his personal life including his marriage with Nancy Dolman, who passed away in 2010. The documentary will premiere on the OTT giant, Netflix from May 12, 2026, onwards.

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Who is Katherine Short?

Martin Short's daughter, Katherine maintained a private life, despite coming from a filmy family. Reportedly, Katherine was the eldest of Martin and Nancy's three adopted children. As per a report by The Guardian, she studied psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University. Later, she went on to work as a clinical social worker.

In February 2026, Katherine was found dead at her home. Later, authorities confirmed that she committed suicide. Soon after her death, a spokesperson close to Martin Short and his family told Page Six, "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."

What are your thoughts on Martin Short breaking his silence on his daughter, Katherine Short’s tragic death? Let us know.