For decades, actor Martin Short has made people laugh with his sharp wit and unforgettable performances. But away from the spotlight, one relationship remained at the center of his life for almost 30 years. Long before becoming known as one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, Short found lasting love with Nancy Dolman, whose quiet presence and devotion to family shaped much of his personal world. Their marriage, children, and enduring bond continue to draw attention years after her death. 

Before building a family together away from Hollywood’s spotlight, the couple’s relationship first began during Canada’s thriving theater scene in the 1970s. 

Before actor Martin Short became famous, he had a whole different life away from the Hollywood spotlight. There was one person who was always in the background, supporting him quietly, Nancy Dolman. Dolman was a Canadian singer and comedian herself, and even had a recurring role as Annie Selig Tate on the ABC sitcom Soap. 

Their relationship began in the 1970s when a group of young performers worked together on the musical Godspell. One of them was Dolman, a gifted actress and singer with whom Short’s relationship gradually started. It eventually turned into a decades-long love affair that defined much of his personal life. 

Dolman was best known for her work in television and theater before retiring from acting to start a family with Short. Fresh out of breakups and in a headspace where they did not want another relationship, their friendship eventually blossomed into a bond of a lifetime, and the couple tied the knot in 1980, remaining together for almost three decades. 

Dolman, who had three children from her marriage to the Only Murders in the Building star, including his late daughter Katherine, died of ovarian cancer in 2010. During many interviews, Short talked about the painful experience after she was diagnosed in 2007. The incident took place after she thought she had a hernia; however, it was something more dire. 

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Even after Dolman’s death, the family remained at the centre of Short’s life as he continued to raise their three children.

Nancy Dolman and Martin Short had three children- Katherine Elizabeth, Oliver Patrick, and Henry Hayter. Katherine Elizabeth Short graduated from New York University in 2006 with a bachelor’s in psychology and gender studies. She earned a master’s in social work from the University of Southern California in 2010. She was a licensed clinical social worker in private practice and part-time at a clinic. While details were kept shielded and justifiably so, Katherine Short passed away in 2026 at the age of 42.

Meanwhile, Oliver Patrick Short attended college at the University of Notre Dame, where he served as captain for several sports teams. He graduated in 2008 with a degree in film/television production and even worked as an executive assistant at Warner Bros., as confirmed by Short himself in an interview with The Guardian. Henry Hayter also attended the University of Notre Dame and served as captain for one to two teams. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance from the university in 2012.

Now, even years after Dolman’s death, her bond with Short is still remembered as one of the longest-lasting partnerships in entertainment. From their early days in the theater to building a family together, their story remained grounded in loyalty, humor, and family. 

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Do you think Martin Short and Nancy Dolman’s lasting relationship remains one of Hollywood’s most touching love stories? Let us know in the comments.