Inside Martin Short’s Family: Meet His Children and the Heartbreaking Loss That Shaped Their Lives

The entertainment world was struck with sadness in late February 2026 following the tragic passing of Katherine, the 42-year-old daughter of beloved comedian Martin Short. As the family navigated their grief, the spotlight turned to Short, a man known for his humor but now revealing a more personal side of resilience amid profound loss.

Although Martin Short is widely recognized for his comedic talents, his most cherished role has been that of a father to his three adopted children. This journey, marked by love and heartache, highlights the deep bonds and enduring affection within the Short family.

Who Are Martin Short’s Children?

Martin and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, adopted their children—Katherine, Oliver, and Henry—during their nearly three-decade-long marriage. Despite their father’s fame, the siblings have largely stayed out of the Hollywood limelight, carving out careers in fields far removed from the entertainment industry.

Each child has pursued their own unique path, with interests spanning from social work to sports production, demonstrating the strong values instilled by their parents. Their choices reflect a commitment to following personal passions and contributing positively to the world.

How Many Children Does Martin Short Have?

For more information about Martin Short and his family, you can visit Martin Short’s Wikipedia page.

The five-member family was exceptionally close, and their bond only strengthened following the untimely death of their matriarch, Nancy, in 2010.

Martin Short’s Children: Names and Birth Years

The Short children were welcomed into the family through adoption over a span of six years. Their names and birth years are:

• Katherine Elizabeth Short, born on December 3, 1983.
• Oliver Patrick Short, born on April 29, 1986.
• Henry Hayter Short, born on August 4, 1989.

How Old Are Martin Short’s Kids in 2026?

As of 2026, the ages of Martin Short’s children serve as a poignant reminder of the recent misfortune that has affected the family. Oliver is 39 years old, and Henry is 36. Katherine would have been 42 if she had not tragically passed away in February of this year.

Did Martin Short Lose a Daughter? The Truth Explained

Indeed, Martin Short lost his daughter Katherine in a tragic event in February 2026. She was discovered at her residence in the Hollywood Hills, and authorities confirmed her death was a result of suicide.

The family issued a statement expressing their heartbreak and requested privacy while honoring Katherine as someone who brought “light and joy to the world.”

The Death of Nancy Dolman and Its Impact on the Family

Nancy Dolman, who was married to Martin for 30 years, succumbed to ovarian cancer in 2010. Her death at the age of 58 created a significant gap in the family, compelling Martin to assume the role of a single father to their three teenage and young adult children.

He later described those years as “challenging” for his kids, but they supported each other, commemorating her memory by keeping her spirit deeply ingrained in their lives.

How Martin Short Raised His Children After His Wife’s Passing

Following Nancy’s death, Martin Short adopted a philosophy of living life fully despite its hardships while raising his children. He promoted their independence and took pride in their choices away from show business.

He employed humor and transparency to cope with grief, teaching them that loved ones remain in our hearts if remembered, a lesson that has gained deeper significance following Katherine’s tragic passing.