Martin Short postpones comedy tour after the death of daughter, Katherine

Martin Short postpones comedy tour after the death of daughter, Katherine

• Martin Short delays tour after daughter Katherine's death
• Katherine Short, 42, died by suicide in Hollywood Hills
• Fans and peers express condolences as Short mourns privately

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Veteran comedian and actor Martin Short has postponed several dates on his ongoing comedy tour with longtime friend Steve Martin following the tragic death of his daughter, Katherine Hartley Short. The news has prompted an outpouring of support from peers and fans as Short takes time to mourn with his family.

Katherine, 42, was found dead at her home in the Hollywood Hills on February 23, 2026. According to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office, her death was ruled a suicide; she died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Katherine was the eldest child of Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who died of ovarian cancer in 2010.

A licensed clinical social worker, Katherine built her career focused on mental health and community outreach. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California. In her professional life, she worked both in private practice and with organisations that provide mental health resources and support services.

Martin Short’s representative confirmed that the family is “devastated by this loss” and has requested privacy during this difficult time. "Due to unforeseen circumstances, Steve Martin & Martin Short's shows on February 27th in Milwaukee and February 28th in Minneapolis have been postponed," a rep for Short told Entertainment Weekly. "Tickets will be honored for a future rescheduled date."

As a result of the tragedy, multiple shows scheduled for February 27 in Milwaukee and February 28 in Minneapolis as part of The Best of Steve Martin & Martin Short tour have been postponed. Venues have issued notices assuring ticket holders that their tickets will be honoured for rescheduled dates once they are determined.

The tour, which has dates planned through March and later into the year, is expected to resume after Short has taken the necessary time away from performing. The next confirmed date on the schedule is March 13 in Washington, D.C., but it remains unclear whether this will remain unchanged.

Also read: Martin Short’s daughter Katherine Short dies by suicide at 42

Fans and fellow entertainers have expressed condolences on social media and in public tributes, recognising both Katherine’s contributions to mental health advocacy and Short’s decades-long influence in comedy.