McSTREAMY.COM – The 42-year-old daughter (above-left) of actor-comedian Martin Short (above-right) passed away February 23, 2026. She was a licensed clinical social worker.
“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.”
The LAPD and fire department responded to her Hollywood Hills home on Monday, a little after 6 pm PT. Paramedics pronounced her dead shortly after.
A law enforcement source told TMZ that Katherine died of apparent suicide by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Martin Short and his late wife Nancy Dolman adopted Katherine. She was one of three adopted children. The young lady had apparently changed her last name to Hartley in respect for her professional career to prevent any confusion among her patients/clients.
Katherine had operated a private practice in Los Angeles, specializing in adoption, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, grief, loss, suicide, and relationship difficulties. She received her master’s degree from the University of Southern California School of Social Work in 2010.
