Martin Short has postponed several dates of his comedy tour with Steve Martin following the unexpected death of his daughter, Katherine Elizabeth Short. The news, confirmed on February 24, , has prompted an outpouring of support for the comedian as he navigates this deeply personal loss.
Tour Dates Affected
The postponements include the February 27th performance at Milwaukee’s Miller High Life Theatre and two shows at the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis on February 28th. A statement released by the Miller High Life Theatre indicated that tickets would be honored for a future rescheduled date, with further details to be announced. The next scheduled performance, currently still listed, is set for at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington D.C.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances, Steve Martin & Martin Short’s show, originally scheduled for Friday, February 27th in Milwaukee, has been postponed,” the Milwaukee theatre’s website stated. Similar messaging was shared by the Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis.
A Profound Loss
Katherine Short, 42, passed away on , , at a residence in the Hollywood Hills. Authorities responded to a call regarding a possible suicide, according to reports. While an official cause of death has not been released, the family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” a representative for Martin Short shared in a statement. “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.”
Katherine Short: A Life Dedicated to Helping Others
Katherine was the eldest of three children adopted by Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, alongside her brothers, Oliver and Henry. Beyond her family life, Katherine dedicated her career to mental health advocacy and clinical social work.
She maintained a private practice and also worked part-time at the Amae Health Clinic. Her commitment extended to Bring Change 2 Mind, an organization focused on reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness, particularly among young people, and providing a platform for individuals to share their experiences.
Remembering Katherine Through Martin Short’s Memoirs
Martin Short’s memoir, “I Must Say,” offers glimpses into Katherine’s life and the special bond he shared with her. He recounted anecdotes illustrating her precocious personality and sharp wit from a young age. One story detailed a phone call Katherine insisted on making to the comedy legend Gilda Radner, prompting Radner to playfully suggest the baby’s name be spelled with an “A” like Katharine Hepburn. Another recalled a five-year-old Katherine confidently offering her phone number to actor Tony Curtis after meeting him at a party.
Short also shared a poignant excerpt from a letter Katherine read at his wife Nancy Dolman’s memorial service. Referring to the lake where Dolman’s ashes were scattered, Katherine wrote, “Whenever I swim in this lake, I will swim around your spirit. I will feel the water flow over me, and I will feel you.”
The loss of Katherine is particularly poignant given Martin Short’s previous experience with grief, having lost his wife Nancy to ovarian cancer in . The comedian’s decision to postpone his tour reflects the profound impact of this loss and the need for time to mourn with his family.
The entertainment community has yet to fully respond to the news, but the initial outpouring of support suggests a widespread sense of sympathy for Short and his family. As the industry awaits further updates, the focus remains on providing space and respect for their privacy during this incredibly difficult period.
