Only Murders in the Building star Martin Short will be conspicuously absent from Sunday's 2026 Actor Awards ceremony as he mourns the devastating loss of his daughter, Katherine, who died by suicide earlier this week at age 42.
TheEntBase has confirmed that the 75-year-old comedy legend is skipping the prestigious event—where he's nominated for two awards—following this heartbreaking family tragedy. Katherine Short, a licensed clinical social worker, took her own life just days before the ceremony.
The tragedy has forced Short to postpone his comedy tour with Steve Martin and now miss the Actor Awards, previously known as the SAG Awards, where he's up for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Comedy Series and as part of the Only Murders in the Building ensemble.
Martin Short with his daughter Katherine in 2006—a cherished memory now shadowed by tragedy. James Devaney/WireImage
A family spokesperson told TheEntBase: "The Short family is shattered by this tragedy and requests privacy. Katherine was cherished by everyone and will be remembered for the happiness and warmth she spread."
This marks another profound loss for Short, who lost his wife Nancy Dolman to ovarian cancer in 2010. Katherine was one of their three children, alongside brothers Oliver and Henry.
Despite the nominations, Short's priorities are clear. In a recent interview, he said: "Working 15-hour days? That would be awful. We should cut out things that cause stress or unhappiness. And I believe it's unseemly at 72 to be completely consumed by your career. My life, my children, my friends—that's where I find immense joy."
Martin Short with Steve Martin and Selena Gomez in 'Only Murders in the Building'—a career highlight overshadowed by personal grief. Disney/Patrick Harbron
The entertainment world now watches as a beloved figure navigates unimaginable grief while his professional achievements take a backseat to family tragedy.
