Beloved Martin Short is facing every parent’s worst nightmare. The 75-year-old actor was seen outside his home this week as close friends and family stopped by to support him following the heartbreaking death of his oldest daughter, Katherine Hartley Short.
Katherine died by suicide Monday evening at her Hollywood Hills home, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Martin Short Leaning on Loved Ones After Daughter’s Tragic Death
According to photos obtained by the Daily Mail, Short stepped outside briefly, keeping his appearance low-key. Dressed casually and wearing dark sunglasses, he greeted loved ones at his doorstep as they arrived to offer comfort.
Those close to him say the grief has been overwhelming, describing a father leaning on his inner circle as he works through an unimaginable loss.
Photos show Short embracing visitors who came to stand by his side.
Among them was longtime friend Paul Shaffer, who was seen buzzing in at the gate while carrying what appeared to be a bottle of wine. The two shared a heartfelt hug.
GettyOther familiar faces have also stopped by in recent days, including Steven Spielberg, Kurt Russell, and Eugene Levy. Insiders told the Daily Mail that Short’s “Only Murders in the Building” co-stars Meryl Streep and Steve Martin have been privately offering their support as well.
‘He Is Gutted’: Source Describes Martin Short’s Overwhelming Grief
GettyA source close to the family told The Daily Mail that grief has been overwhelming.
“This is as much of a horror to Martin and his sons, her brothers, as humanly possible,” the source said. “For someone who brings so much joy to so many, who is always trying to lift others up and make them laugh, this loss has completely shattered him. He is gutted, and as you would expect, his closest friends are surrounding him with love and support.”
Short also leaned on his family in the days following the tragedy.
His youngest son, Henry Hayter Short, 36, was seen arriving at the home with takeout from Joan’s On Third before sharing a long embrace with his father.
Henry’s wife, Haylen, joined him on the porch as the family gathered quietly together.
Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, built their family through adoption, welcoming three children together: Katherine, Henry, and Oliver Patrick Short, 39.
GettyDolman died in 2010 at 58 after a battle with ovarian cancer. The couple had been married for 30 years.
Henry has largely kept a low profile. After graduating from Notre Dame in 2012, he began his career at the Royal Bank of Canada. He later changed paths and became a veterinary assistant, according to People.
Short Family Shared an Emotional Statement After Katherine’s Death
GettyOn Tuesday, Short’s representatives confirmed Katherine’s passing in a statement.
“It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short,” the statement read, as published by TMZ. “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 was a licensed clinical social worker with a master’s degree from the University of Southern California.
She was last seen publicly celebrating her 40th birthday in 2023 at Grandmaster Recorders in Hollywood alongside friends, including Kurt Russell, Goldie Hawn, Catherine O’Hara, Bo Welch, and Joni Mitchell.
Our hearts are with Steve Martin and his two sons, who have stood beside him with unwavering love and strength.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 to reach the toll-free Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It’s available 24 hours a day, seven days a week (dial 888-628-9454 for assistance in Spanish). You can also speak with a trained crisis counselor anytime by texting HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.
Our thoughts are with Martin Short and his two sons, not Steve Martin!
The proof reader for this article did a lousy job. Kurt Russell has ben dead for several months. The short family is in my prayers.