Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Katherine Short, daughter of renowned actor and comedian Martin Short, passed away at the age of 42 at her home in the Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles, on Monday, February 23, 2026.
According to initial reports, authorities responded to an emergency call regarding a suspected suicide at Katherine's home the night of the incident.
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The Short family has released an official statement, requesting privacy during this difficult time of mourning.
This news came as a shock to many, given Katherine's relatively young age and background as a dedicated professional while Martin Short himself was well-known in the entertainment industry.
Details of Katherine Short's Death
Katherine Short was found dead on Monday, February 23, 2026, at approximately 6:00 p.m. local time.
The location of the incident was her home in the Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Fire Department immediately responded to an emergency call reporting a possible suicide at the address.
According to law enforcement sources who spoke to the Los Angeles Times, Katherine Short's death is strongly suspected to be suicide.
Further reports indicate that her death was caused by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to confirm the exact cause of death.
Family Statement and Condolences
Representatives of Martin Short's family have confirmed the tragic news through an official statement shared with the media.
The statement expressed their deep sorrow for the loss of Katherine Hartley Short and requested privacy for the family to grieve.
The family statement read, "It is with profound sadness that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. The Short family is devastated by this loss and requests privacy at this time. Katherine was loved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought to the world."
Another statement added, "It is with broken hearts that we share the passing of our beloved daughter, Katherine Hartley Short. There are no words for the depth of this loss. Our family is devastated, and we ask for privacy as we grieve this unimaginable heartbreak. Katherine was the light of our lives, full of warmth, kindness, and joy that touched everyone she met. That light will never fade in our hearts. Forever loved. Forever our daughter."
Katherine Short Background
Katherine Hartley Short was the eldest of three children adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman.
She was born in 1983, making her 42 years old at the time of her death.
Despite having a celebrity father, Katherine largely chose to stay out of the public eye.
Katherine was known as a dedicated licensed clinical social worker.
She attended New York University, earning a bachelor's degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies in 2006.
She then went on to earn a master's degree in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010.
In addition to her private practice, Katherine also worked part-time at the Amae Health clinic.
She is also actively involved in the charity Bring Change 2 Mind.
This organization focuses on ending the stigma and discrimination that often accompanies mental illness, demonstrating its commitment to public mental health.