Martin Short has publicly reflected on the pain of losing his daughter, Katherine, who tragically died by suicide earlier this year at the age of 42. During the Fourth Annual Rare Impact Fund Gala held on October 14, 2026, Short, accompanied by actress and friend Selena Gomez, shared his heartfelt insights on the impact of mental health struggles and the legacy of his late daughter.
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Gomez, who hosted the gala in Los Angeles, introduced the Katherine Short Legacy Award in honour of Katherine’s dedication to mental health advocacy. “Katherine was a social worker who devoted her own career to helping people through some of their hardest points,” Gomez noted. The award aims to recognise individuals who demonstrate a similar commitment to supporting their communities.
Short described the pain of losing Katherine as a profound heartbreak for his family, acknowledging the challenging year they have endured since her passing. He emphasized the importance of mental health awareness, drawing from his own family experiences. The actor noted that mental health issues should not be stigmatized or regarded as a source of embarrassment for families.
“It has been a very difficult year for me, needless to say,” Short remarked on stage. He continued, “My family has come to understand that mental health and diseases like cancer are serious conditions. Unfortunately, they can, at times, be terminal.” He referenced the loss of his wife, Nancy Dolman, to ovarian cancer in 2010, highlighting the commonality in the struggles faced by families grappling with health challenges.
Katherine had long battled serious mental health issues, including borderline personality disorder. Short poignantly stated, “She did the best she could until she couldn’t.” He reiterated the need for increased awareness and funding for mental health initiatives, praising Gomez for her involvement in raising funds and shedding light on these critical issues.
“The loss of my daughter will be devastating to my soul for as long as I live,” he expressed. Drawing on a quote from Dolly Parton, he added, “Grief is love with no place to go,” illustrating his belief that love for his daughter will remain ever-present, as those we love become an integral part of us.
During the event, Short also praised Gomez, describing her as “one of the most brilliant women in the world.” He appreciated their collaborative work in the series “Only Murders in the Building,” reflecting on the lessons he has learned from her. “Working with her has been a privilege, and I think she embodies compassion and commitment,” he said.
The Rare Impact Fund has significantly contributed to youth mental health initiatives, with over £30 million raised to date. The gala served as not only a fundraising event but also as a platform to encourage open conversations around mental health, aiming to remove the stigma associated with it.
In February, shortly after Katherine’s death, the Short family released a statement that conveyed their profound grief. “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,” they said, highlighting the significant impact Katherine had on those around her.
Martin Short has since described the family’s tragedy as a “nightmare” in subsequent interviews, reflecting on the depth of their loss. The events surrounding Katherine’s passing have underscored the necessity for understanding and compassion toward those facing mental health challenges.
For those struggling with mental health issues or feeling distressed, resources are available, such as the 988 helpline in the United States, which offers support 24/7.
Through her award and driven efforts, Selena Gomez aims to honour Katherine’s legacy, ensuring that her impact is felt far beyond her years and inspiring others to continue the conversation around mental health awareness and support.