Martin Short endured series of personal tragedies before death of daughter Katherine After the death of his daughter aged 42, it has resurfaced how comic Martin Short has endured a series of other personal tragedies - including the deaths of his parents, brother and ex-wife. 25 February 2026 Martin Short has endured a series of personal tragedies before the death of his daughter Katherine Hartley Short - including the passings of his parents, brother and ex-wife.