Conan O’Brien paid tribute to actor and friend Martin Short at the 2026 Oscars ceremony following the tragic death of his daughter.
After “One Battle After Another” was announced as Best Picture on Sunday, the host concluded the 98th Academy Awards by shouting to the Dolby Theater audience, “It’s been an hour of great fun.”
“I love you, Martin Short! Goodnight!”
The sweet moment came after several big stars led a “In Memoriam” segment paying tribute to stars such as Rob Reiner, Diane Keaton and Catherine O’Hara.
Martin has taken a step back from comedy shows and industry events as he grieves the loss of his only daughter, who was 42 years old, on February 24.
The social worker died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head, according to a death certificate released by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and obtained by TMZ.
Her death certificate also confirmed that she was cremated.
In response to her passing, a representative for the Only Murders in the Building actor said, “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the passing of Katherine Hartley Short.
“The Short family is devastated by this loss and requests privacy at this time,” they added. “Catherine was loved by all and will be remembered for the light and joy she brought to the world.”
The Los Angeles Fire Department also confirmed to Page Six that they “responded to a report of a shooting” at Kathryn’s Hollywood Hills address at around 6:41 p.m. and “a female was reported deceased.”
Katherine Hartley, who legally changed her name to Katherine Hartley in 2012, was found dead behind a locked bedroom door, with a note and a gun nearby.
Her body was reportedly discovered after a close friend alerted authorities after a social worker “could not be reached for 24 hours.”
But Catherine’s neighbors pointed out that she never showed “any signs” that she was struggling with her mental health.
Martin and his late wife, Nancy Dolman, adopted Katherine and also adopted sons Oliver Patrick, 39, and Henry Hayter, 36.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) or text the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
