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Martin Short was seen in public for the first time in Santa Monica, carrying a solemn demeanor following the unexpected passing of his daughter, Katherine.
The star of “Only Murders in the Building” was spotted dining with his longtime friend, J.J. Abrams, in the coastal city on Friday evening. Short donned a black blazer over a blue button-down shirt, choosing to forgo a tie, and was clean-shaven for the occasion.
The 76-year-old actor appeared subdued as he and Abrams, known for directing “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” conversed while making their way to a vehicle.
This public appearance occurs during a challenging period for Short. His only daughter, Katherine Short, passed away on February 24 at the age of 42. The cause of death was a self-inflicted gunshot wound, as confirmed by a death certificate from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, according to TMZ.
“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” a representative for the comedian shared with Page Six last month.
“The Short family is devastated by this loss, and asks for privacy at this time,” the statement continued. “Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”
Martin has since opted to take some time off, with the actor postponing two shows that were previously scheduled with Steve Martin.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, Steve Martin & Martin Short’s show, originally scheduled for Friday, February 27th in Milwaukee, has been postponed,” the Pabst Theater Group wrote on its website Tuesday, noting that tickets would “be honored for a future rescheduled date.”
The comedic pair also rescheduled a show on Feb. 28 show in Minneapolis.
Katherine — whom Martin shared with his late wife, Nancy Dolan, along with two grown sons — had shared details of her struggles with mental health, divulging in a since-deleted professional website that she’d adopted a service dog.
“Joni is my incredible service dog, who has been assisting me with my own struggles with mental illness for the past 5 years,” Katherine wrote alongside a photo of the dog, who was named after Joni Mitchell.
“Joni will often be in the office with me, cuddled up on her bed,” the clinical social worker wrote. “She is an absolute sweetheart and just LOVES people, so don’t be surprised if she greets you with a smile, a wagging tail…and maybe even a kiss.”
Following Katherine’s death, Short had the support of Hollywood behind him — at the Oscars on March 15th, the show’s host, Conan O’Brien honored the iconic actor while closing out the broadcast.
“We love you, Martin Short! Good night!” O’Brien said.