After Martin Short’s Wife, Nancy’s Death, Did He Remarry? Meet GF, Meryl As Daughter, Katherine Dies

Martin Short is currently mourning the tragic loss of his eldest daughter, Katherine Hartley Short, who died at the age of 42 on February 23, 2026. This devastating news follows the earlier loss of his wife, Nancy Dolman, who passed away in 2010. Although decades have passed since the tragic incident, Martin still keeps his late wife in his heart. Following Nancy, losing another beloved family member, left the Only Murders in the Building actor devastated. Amid the phase of grief, here’s a look at his alleged current ladylove, Meryl Streep, who might serve as his safe haven amid the heartbreak.

Who is Meryl Streep, Martin Short’s alleged girlfriend?

Meryl Streep is a legendary American actress, popular for her extraordinary versatility and mastery of accents. Best known for her role as the formidable ‘Miranda Priestly’ in The Devil Wears Prada, Meryl has a successful career spanning five decades. The between star is the most-nominated performer in Academy Awards history, with 21 nominations and three wins. She also holds the record for the most Golden Globes nominations (over 30) and wins (nine), including the Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement.

How did Meryl Streep and Martin Short’s dating rumour start?

Meryl Streep and Martin Short‘s relationship reportedly transitioned from a decade-long friendship to a romance while filming Season 3 of the Hulu series, Only Murders in the Building, in 2023. The duo first met backstage in February 2015 at the Broadway show, It’s Only a Play, in which he was starring. At that time, Martin was single, having lost his wife in 2010. However, he did not have a romantic relationship with Meryl, as she was married to sculptor Don Gummer. For years, Meryl and Martin moved in similar social circles and were occasionally photographed at industry events, such as the 2017 AFI Life Achievement Award Gala.

It was only after Meryl’s divorce in 2023 that rumours of her romance with Martin started making rounds. The speculations were sparked due to their numerous high-profile outings. In August 2024, they were seen holding hands at the Only Murders in the Building Season 4 premiere. Meryl and Martin also sat together at the 2024 Golden Globes, which heightened the romance rumours. Additionally, the duo attended multiple Broadway shows together, including Merrily We Roll Along and Oh, Mary!, as well as a Saturday Night Live episode in March 2025.

Did Meryl Streep and Martin Short actually date?

In mid 2024, Martin Short and his representatives denied his dating rumours with Meryl Streep, stating that they were “just very good friends” and “not a couple.” However, in March 2025, Page Six reported that Meryl and Martin had moved beyond friendship and were happy as “boyfriend and girlfriend,” but noted they have no plans to marry. Sources close to the couple allege that their respective families and children “absolutely approve” of the relationship and find them “adorable” together.

Why does Martin Short have no plans to marry Meryl Streep?

Martin Short has stated that he has no plans to marry anyone again, primarily because of his enduring emotional connection to his late wife, Nancy Dolman, who passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010. He has described his connection with Nancy as still active. He frequently talks to her internally, seeking her advice on parenting decisions or simply calling out her name because it “feels good in the throat.” To him, she is still present in his life. The actor often refers to their 30-year marriage as a “triumph” and views Nancy as the love of his life. In a 2019 interview with AARP, Martin stated:

“Our marriage was a triumph. So it’s tough. She died in 2010, but I still communicate with her all the time. It’s ‘Hey Nan,’ you know? How would she react to this decision or that, especially regarding our three kids?”

Martin has expressed that it would be highly unlikely for him to find another person who could fill the position left vacant by his late wife. Following her death, his primary focus has been on his three adoptive children, Katherine, Oliver, and Henry, and maintaining their close-knit family dynamic. Recently, his eldest child, Katherine, also left his side, journeying to the afterlife.

How did Katherine Hartley Short die?

Katherine Hartley Short, the 42-year-old daughter of Martin and Nancy, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on February 23, 2026. Reports by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed Katherine’s cause of death as s**cide after responding to a reported shooting at her Hollywood Hills home. In a statement shared by the Short family, the deceased was addressed as “beloved by all”. According to them, Katherine would continue to have a place in the hearts of the people who knew her for the “light and joy she brought into the world.” The statement could be read as:

“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.”

We offer our heartfelt condolences to Katherine Hartley Short’s family as they deal with her loss.

Also Read: Why Martin Short’s Daughter Katherine Killed Herself? Did Tough Years After Mother’s Death Cause It?