Martin Short

Early Life

Martin Hayter Short was born on March 26, 1950, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, as the youngest of five children. His mother, Olive Grace, was a concertmistress at the Hamilton Symphony Orchestra, while his father, Charles Patrick Short, was a corporate executive who emigrated from Ireland. Short's early life was marked by tragedy, including the loss of his eldest brother in a car accident when Martin was just 12. Despite these challenges, he was encouraged by his mother to pursue his creative interests, leading him to graduate from McMaster University with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work in 1971.

Career

Short's career began in the early 1970s when he moved to Toronto and landed his first acting role in a television commercial. He quickly gained recognition for his work in the Canadian production of "Godspell," where he shared the stage with notable talents like Gilda Radner and Victor Garber. His comedic style, influenced by legends such as Stan Laurel and Jerry Lewis, propelled him into various television and film roles, including his acclaimed performances in sketch comedy. Over the years, Short has received numerous accolades, including two Primetime Emmy Awards and a Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical, solidifying his status as a versatile entertainer.

Personal Life

In 1980, Short married Canadian comic actress Nancy Dolman, with whom he adopted three children. Dolman retired from acting to focus on family but tragically passed away from ovarian cancer in 2010. Short has remained active in philanthropy, supporting causes like cancer research and artists against racism. He is a naturalized U.S. citizen while retaining his Canadian citizenship, and he continues to live in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, with a summer home in Ontario. In 2019, he was honored as an officer of the Order of Canada, recognizing his contributions to the arts and his community.