Martin Short It was reported that he was seen for the first time in Los Angeles since the death of his daughter, Katherine Hartley Shortin February.
TMZ published photos and videos showing Martin, 76, having dinner with his longtime friend, star Wars director JJ Abramsin Santa Monica on Friday, March 27. The comedian was seen leaving the restaurant and getting into the passenger seat of Abrams’ car but did not interact with photographers at the scene.
Us Weekly has reached out to Short’s representative for comment.
Martin has avoided public appearances since confirming his daughter’s death on February 24.
“It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. The Short family is devastated by this loss and requests privacy at this time,” the family said in a statement. Us read. “Katherine was loved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought to the world.”
The next day, Us reports that Katherine’s death was officially ruled a suicide by detectives. A spokesperson for the LAPD confirmed that Us that its officers first responded to a radio call of an attempted suicide in the Hollywood Hills on February 23 and later found a dead woman at the scene.
Katherine was one of three children born to Martin and his late wife, Nancy Dolman. (Couples also share Oliver Patrick Short39, a producer for NBC Sports, and Henry Hayter Short36, veterinary assistant. Dolman died at age 58 in August 2010 after a battle with ovarian cancer.)
In 2012, Katherine applied to change her name to “Katherine Elizabeth Hartley” for work purposes, according to court documents obtained by. Us.
Martin Short, his wife Nancy and daughter Katherine pose with actress Goldie Hawn in 2003.
Kevin Winter/Getty Images“My father is a public figure. I am a mental health worker,” Katherine wrote in the notes. “I am worried about the possible abuse of future patients because of my relationship with my father.”
Katherine’s name change was approved in 2013 and she spent the next 13 years working as a licensed clinical social worker in Los Angeles. He also worked part-time for the Amae Health clinic in LA.
Martin’s friends and collaborators – including his own Loner Criminals in the Building the costar Selena Gomez – show support for the actor after his loss. Host of the Oscars Conan O’Brien also offered a subtle gift to Martin during the 2026 Academy Awards at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood on March 15.
Martin Short’s daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, appears to have kept her mental health firmly on her chest before her tragic death. One of Katherine’s neighbors exclusively told Us Weekly that the 42-year-old comedian’s daughter gave “no sign of struggle” before she died on Monday, February 23. (The Los Angeles Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed to us that […]
After Katherine’s death, her father and Steve Martin have canceled a number of their live comedy shows. As of press time, the comedy duo is set for their 2026 reboot The best of Steve Martin and Martin Short Tour April 11 at the Johnny Mercer Theater in Savannah, Georgia. (These live performances also feature Steve’s bluegrass band, the Steep Canyon Rangers, and many instruments. Jeff Babko.)
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