Martin Short saddens fans with another devastating blow amid daughter’s death

Martin Short has taken a major step after the heartbreaking death of his daughter, Katherine Elizabeth Short.

The 75-year-old comedy legend has called off his upcoming tour dates.

He was left devastated when Katherine, 42, who was adopted by Martin and his late wife Nancy Dolman, passed away on Monday at her Hollywood Hills home. 

Notably, the news came just days before he and Steve Martin were set to perform at the Miller High Life Theater in Milwaukee on Friday, followed by two shows in Minneapolis.

A notice on the venue’s website confirmed: “Due to unforeseen circumstances, Steve Martin and Martin Short’s show…has been postponed. Tickets will be honoured for a future rescheduled date.” 

The next show currently still scheduled is in Washington DC on March 13.

In a statement to PEOPLE magazine, the Short family said: “It is with profound grief that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short. 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.”

Fans have shared messages of love and support on social media, rallying around Martin and his family as they mourn this profound loss.

Katherine, who largely stayed out of the spotlight, earned degrees in psychology and gender sexuality studies from New York University and a master’s in social work from USC. 

She worked as a licensed clinical social worker and part-time at the Amae Health clinic.

Martin, who also lost his wife Nancy to ovarian cancer in 2010, previously spoke about coping with tragedy: “When people die, they zoom into the people that love them…her death emboldened me to take risks. With real tragedy, you become a little more daring.”

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