Martin Short has opened up about the heartbreaking loss of his daughter Katherine, sharing an emotional message about grief and mental health nearly eight months after her death. The 76-year-old comedian and actor delivered the touching tribute during Selena Gomez’s fourth annual Rare Impact Fund Benefit in Los Angeles on Wednesday, October 14.
According to Parade, the Only Murders in the Building star attended the charity event to present a special award honoring his daughter’s memory. Katherine, a licensed clinical social worker who dedicated her career to helping others, died in February 2026 at age 42. Although Short is known for bringing laughter to audiences, his latest public appearance revealed the profound sadness his family continues to experience.
Martin Short’s Daughter Katherine Honored With Special Mental Health Award
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During the benefit, Short presented the inaugural Katherine Short Legacy Award, honoring contributions to mental health and community well-being. Sacramento-based La Familia Counseling Center, celebrating 50 years of service, received the award. In his speech, Short discussed his daughter’s struggles with borderline personality disorder and encouraged greater understanding of mental illness, comparing it to physical diseases like the cancer that claimed his wife Nancy Dolman’s life in 2010.
Short reflected on the lasting grief of losing his daughter, quoting Dolly Parton‘s description of grief as “love with no place to go.” He emphasized his family’s enduring love for Katherine. After footage of his speech circulated on Instagram, fans praised his openness about mental health and thanked Gomez for helping him honor his daughter.
Remembering Katherine Short’s Life and Her Father’s Family Legacy
Katherine was one of three children Short and Dolman adopted during their marriage, alongside sons Oliver and Henry. Unlike her famous father, she pursued a career outside entertainment, working as a clinical social worker and helping people navigate emotional and psychological challenges. Sadly, she died by suicide on February 23, 2026. Following her passing, the family requested privacy while remembering the happiness and kindness she brought into their lives.
The tribute highlighted Short’s friendship with his Only Murders in the Building co-star Selena Gomez, whose Rare Impact Fund supports youth mental health services. The 2026 benefit raised nearly $3 million, bringing the organization’s total to over $30 million. For Short, the evening honored Katherine’s compassion and dedication to helping others, while the award ensures her legacy continues inspiring mental health initiatives.