Tom Hanks once praised his friend Martin Short, saying, “Marty operates at the speed of joy.” When asked about this, Short responded, “You know, I don’t analyze myself. If that’s his review for me, I’ll accept it. But I think I do have the happy gene. And I think my orientation is to be happy.”
Short’s career spans over 50 years, marked by an infectious energy and an unmistakable smile. Despite personal challenges, his positivity remains admirable. This week, a new documentary, “Marty: Life Is Short,” directed by Lawrence Kasdan, highlights Short’s extraordinary journey. Kasdan revealed that Short was initially hesitant about participating, needing some encouragement to agree. “I had to sell him on it,” Kasdan said, adding that he reassured Short of his intentions.
The documentary features home movies with notable friends like Hanks, Kurt Russell, and Steven Spielberg. Although it showcases joyful moments, it does not shy away from Short’s hardships. He faced tragedy early in life, losing his brother at 12 and his parents during his teens. Reflecting on these experiences, Short shared, “What it developed in me was this muscle of survival and handling grief and a perspective on it.” This resilience fueled his confidence on stage.
In 1977, Short’s courage took him to Toronto’s Second City, where he worked alongside rising stars such as Eugene Levy, John Candy, and Catherine O’Hara. The documentary is dedicated to O’Hara, whom Short described as “brilliant” and “sweet.” He recalled her supportive presence during their ‘SCTV’ days.
Short’s life has been both comedic and tragic. His 30-year marriage to Nancy Dolman ended with her passing from ovarian cancer in 2010. “She was funny. She had lots of edge,” Short recalled. Tragically, his daughter Katherine’s recent suicide at age 42 has added to the family’s grief. “It’s been a nightmare,” Short admitted, acknowledging the complexity of mental health issues.
Based in Pacific Palisades since the late 1980s, Short faced property challenges but found solace in his grandsons after recent family hardships. He reflected, “I’m 75. Why am I continuing?” Yet, the joy from his grandsons reminded him of his life’s purpose.
Short remains active, soon filming another season of “Only Murders In the Building.” He humorously speculates about a possible Broadway collaboration with Meryl Streep. “We’re trying to figure out something,” he joked.
In the documentary, Ron Howard questioned Short on his persistence. Short explained, “I just think it’s important, if you’re ‘gifted,’ to share that gift, of course, with people!” This sentiment captures Short’s enduring dedication to bringing laughter, despite life’s difficulties.
His wife’s desire for him to keep working during her illness emphasized the importance of perseverance. “You have to do it,” Short said. “The mark of the man is: Can you do it?” His resolve to “head for the light” speaks volumes about his resilience.
The documentary “Marty: Life Is Short” streams on Netflix starting May 12. For those struggling with emotional distress, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available for support. Additional mental health resources can also be accessed through the National Alliance on Mental Illness HelpLine.
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