Martin Short reveals his lifelong struggles with grief and loss in the upcoming documentary ‘Marty, Life Is Short’. The film will premiere on Netflix on May 12, 2026.
Short has faced significant personal tragedies. He lost his daughter, Katherine Short, at the age of 40 in February 2023. His wife, Nancy Dolman, died of cancer in 2010 after 30 years of marriage.
Short’s family history includes more loss. His older brother, David Short, died in a car accident when Martin was just 12 years old. His mother passed away from cancer when he was 17, followed by the death of his father from a stroke when he was 20.
The documentary features interviews with friends and colleagues, including Eugene Levy and Tom Hanks. It also includes archival footage and sit-down interviews that explore both his career anxieties and personal struggles.
Short’s alter ego, Jiminy Glick, makes an appearance in the documentary. “Did you hear they were making a documentary about Martin Short?” Glick quips in a humorous moment.
Key facts about Martin Short:
- Short is currently 76 years old.
- Catherine O’Hara, a longtime friend, passed away at age 71 in January 2023.
- The documentary discusses themes of mental health and suicide prevention.
Eugene Levy praised Short’s comedic talents, stating, “In this business, there’s nobody faster, there’s nobody smarter, and there’s nobody funnier.” Steve Martin added humorously about inviting Short to dinner: “Let’s say you’re gonna host a dinner party. And you’re gonna invite Marty. And then it turns out Marty can’t come — you cancel the party.”
