Martin Short’s Personal Journey Explored in Upcoming Documentary

Martin Short has built a career on laughter, but his newest project dives deeper into his personal life.

The trailer for the Netflix documentary Marty, life is short, set to be released on May 12, showcases the significant highs and lows that have marked the comedian’s journey. True to Short’s style, even the serious moments are lightened with humor. He humorously recalls how his brother Michael had “the funeral home on speed dial.”

“I couldn’t stop laughing back then… That’s what matters,” he reflects. “In life, sometimes you hit the green light, and other times, for no reason at all, you face a red light.”

This film addresses the losses that have shaped him, including the recent death of his daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, who died by suicide in February at just 42.

“With great sadness, we confirm the death of Katherine Hartley Short,” a spokesperson announced. “The Short family is devastated and asks for privacy. Katherine was deeply loved and will be remembered for the joy she brought into the world.”

While the documentary delves into heavier themes, it also features heartfelt family moments, such as scenes where Short dances with his children, emphasizing the importance of fatherhood in his life.

“Fatherhood is as real as breathing,” notes comedian Andrea Martin in the film.

Loss has been a recurring theme for Short since childhood. He lost his eldest brother in a car accident when he was just 12, and within a few years, both of his parents passed away—his mother from cancer and his father from a stroke shortly after.

Nonetheless, he has often pointed to humor as his grounding force. In a past interview, he shared that his upbringing was filled with laughter: “We had a lot of humor at home.”

Looking back, he mentioned, “I think I stayed strong because I had a solid foundation. Such situations are daunting, but you’re either empowered by them or you become a victim.”

Eventually, he found enduring love with his wife, Nancy Dolman, with whom he shared 36 years of marriage until her death from ovarian cancer in 2010 at 58. He described her as “the perfect person” and remarked, “Had I not found the right person, we likely would have divorced multiple times.”

The documentary also highlights his long-term friendships, particularly with fellow comedian Catherine O’Hara. Their bond is showcased through both interviews, including one conducted before her passing in January, and archival footage of their time together.

“He seems like he could improvise forever. Could he?” she mused in the film.

Other clips illustrate their playful chemistry, such as when Short jokes with her about her Home Alone role, bringing laughter and lightness to the moments.

If the trailer is any indication, Marty, life is short aims to provide not just a career retrospective of Short but a complete view of the man himself—someone who, against all odds, continues to find humor in life.