What personal tragedies has Martin Short experienced?

Martin Short has experienced the deaths of his older brother David, both parents before age 21, his wife Nancy Dolman in 2010, and his daughter Katherine in February 2026.

When did Martin Short's wife pass away?

Martin Short's wife, Nancy Dolman, passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010 after 30 years of marriage.

How old was Martin Short's daughter when she died?

Martin Short's daughter, Katherine, was 42 years old when she passed away on February 23, 2026.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Martin Short: Comedy Star's Deepest Heartbreak Revealed

Martin Short: Comedy Star's Deepest Heartbreak Revealed

25 Feb

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Summary

Comedian Martin Short faced multiple family deaths from childhood.
His wife of 30 years succumbed to ovarian cancer in 2010.
His daughter Katherine passed away at 42 years old.

Martin Short: Comedy Star's Deepest Heartbreak Revealed

Comedic actor Martin Short has endured a series of devastating personal losses throughout his life. His first major heartbreak occurred in 1992 when his eldest brother, David, died in a car accident at the young age of 12. This was followed by the deaths of both his parents within two years of each other.

His mother, Olive Grace, passed away from ovarian cancer in 1998, and his father, Charles Patrick Short, died from stroke complications in 2000. This left Martin orphaned at just 20 years old.