In the wake of a tragic loss in the family, Martin Short is taking some time away from the public eye to be with loved ones.
The actor, 75, confirmed on February 24 that his only daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, had tragically passed away at the age of 42.
Martin adopted Katherine and her brothers, Oliver Patrick and Henry Hayter Short, with his longtime wife Nancy Dolman, who died in 2010.
© Getty ImagesCanceled appearances
On Friday, February 27, the actor and comedian was scheduled to perform with his close friend and Only Murders in the Building co-star Steve Martin as part of their ongoing comedy tour.
The duo kicked off a new leg of their nationwide tour on January 29, and were set to bring it back later this week at the Miller High Life Theatre in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. However, due to Katherine's death, the venue now notes that their show has been postponed.
"Due to unforeseen circumstances, Steve Martin & Martin Short's show, originally scheduled for Friday, February 27th in Milwaukee, has been postponed," the statement on their website read. "Tickets will be honored for a future rescheduled date. We will be in contact with further news when it is available."
© Getty ImagesSimilarly, the duo was then set to take the stage at the Orpheum Theatre Minneapolis in Minnesota for a matinee and evening show the very next day. Those shows have been postponed as well.
"Steve Martin & Martin Short's shows originally scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 28 have been postponed. Tickets will be honored for a future rescheduled date when determined," the statement on the Orpheum's website reads.
© Getty ImagesThe follow-up show is slated for the D.A.R. Constitution Hall in Washington D.C. on March 13. As of writing, tickets to that show are still being sold, and will likely be the actor's first public appearance since his daughter's passing.
The Steve Martin and Martin Short tour
The friends have been touring since the 2010s, with their comedy shows even turned into acclaimed specials like An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life. In the wake of renewed success thanks to Only Murders, they resumed their tour earlier this year.
© Getty ImagesTheir website reads: "Purpose and scope in 2026: a U.S. national run with more than twenty engagements across major regions (West Coast, Midwest, South, and Northeast), with additional dates expected as venues add second shows."
"Why see it now? Fresh material tailored to current events, new visuals, tightened orchestration, and spontaneous audience interaction keep every stop unique. It's a masterclass in timing you can't stream — be there when history is made."
The Short family's loss
© Getty ImagesTMZ was the first to report the news of Katherine's death, stating that she died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, although that has yet to be confirmed by her family or law enforcement officials.
"It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short," a rep for the Short family told HELLO! on February 24. "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."
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