Martin Short was spotted in a rare public outing this week, marking one of his first appearances since the devastating loss of his daughter, Katherine.
The beloved comedian and actor stepped out Friday evening in Santa Monica, where he was seen heading to dinner with longtime friend J. J. Abrams in images obtained by TMZ.
Short Was With Abrams
The two have shared a close relationship over the years, and Abrams—best known as the co-creator of “Lost”—was photographed driving Short as they left together.
Dressed in a simple yet polished look—a black blazer layered over a button-down shirt—Short kept a low profile during the outing.
The sighting comes in the weeks following the tragic death of his daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, whose passing was confirmed by a family representative.
In a statement, the family expressed the depth of their grief while asking for privacy during an incredibly difficult time.
“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” the statement read. “The Short family is devastated by this loss, and asks for privacy at this time.”
The message also reflected on the impact Katherine had on those around her.
“Katherine was beloved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought into the world.”
Friends and neighbors echoed those sentiments, describing her as warm and kind, with one recalling her as a “great neighbor and gardener.”
The loss has clearly left a deep mark on those who knew her.
Short Has Stepped Away for the Public Eye
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Short has largely stepped away from public life.
Known for his enduring career in comedy and film—as well as his recent work on “Only Murders in the Building”—he has paused professional commitments to focus on his family and grieve privately.
His tour with frequent collaborator Steve Martin was temporarily put on hold, with plans to resume performances on April 11.
This heartbreaking loss is not the first personal tragedy Short has faced.
In 2010, his wife of three decades, Nancy Dolman, died after battling ovarian cancer. Together, they shared three children.
As Short navigates yet another period of profound grief, his recent outing offers a quiet glimpse into a difficult moment—one marked less by the laughter he’s known for, and more by resilience and the support of close friends.
For fans, it’s a reminder that even the most joyful public figures face deeply personal struggles away from the spotlight.
Shame on tabloid (TMZ) vultures for taking and publishing that sad picture! Tabloid (TMZ) vultures feast on human tragedy! And how relevant is what he was wearing? I didn’t realize just what this story was about besides just Martin Short! 😢😢😢😢😢😩😩