Katherine Hartley Short, Daughter of Martin Short, Reportedly Dies by Suicide at 42 After Self-Inflicted Gunshot at Hollywood Hills Home

Katherine Hartley Short, the 42-year-old daughter of comedian and actor Martin Short, has reportedly died by suicide, according to law-enforcement sources cited by TMZ.

Authorities say she was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound at her home in Hollywood Hills shortly after 6:40 p.m. Monday. Responders from the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at the scene, though it has not been disclosed who contacted emergency services.

In a statement shared with People, a representative for the family said:
“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.”

Born Dec. 3, 1983, Katherine was the adopted daughter of Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who died in 2010 from ovarian cancer. She largely stayed out of the spotlight but occasionally appeared with her father at public events.

According to her professional biography, Katherine worked as a social worker in Los Angeles. She earned a psychology degree from New York University and later obtained a master’s in social work from University of Southern California. She was also involved with Bring Change to Mind, an organization focused on youth mental-health awareness and stigma reduction.

Martin Short is currently on tour with fellow comedian Steve Martin. It is not yet known whether upcoming shows will proceed as scheduled.