Martin Short's Heartbreak: Remembering Nancy Dolman & His Message To Kids

03 May, 2025

How does one navigate the unimaginable sorrow of losing a spouse, especially when that spouse is the bedrock of your life and the mother of your children? For comedian Martin Short, the answer lies in the enduring power of love, memory, and a commitment to family, even amidst profound grief.

In a poignant reflection on his life, Short has openly discussed the passing of his beloved wife, Nancy Dolman. Dolman, a celebrated Canadian actress and singer, succumbed to ovarian cancer in 2010, leaving a void that has undoubtedly shaped Short's life and career. Her death, occurring after a marriage of three decades, forced Short to confront a grief that many can only imagine. The depth of his loss is palpable, yet he has found ways to honor her memory while continuing to parent their three adopted children, Katherine Elizabeth, Oliver Patrick, and Henry Hayter. The emotional journey of Short offers a powerful testament to resilience.

Personal Information	Details
Full Name	Nancy Dolman
Date of Birth	September 26, 1951
Place of Birth	Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Date of Death	August 21, 2010
Cause of Death	Ovarian Cancer
Age at Death	58
Marriage	Married to Martin Short (1980-2010)
Children	Katherine Elizabeth, Oliver Patrick, Henry Hayter (Adopted)
Known For	Actress in "Soap," "Royal Suite," and "It's a Living"
Relationship with Martin Short	Met in 1972 during "Godspell" in Toronto. Married in 1980.
Legacy	Remembered for her acting and her impact on her family.
Reference	IMDB

The couple's journey began in 1972 in Toronto, where they met while working on a production of "Godspell." Their connection blossomed, leading to their marriage in 1980. It was a union marked by love, laughter, and a shared commitment to family. As Short's career soared, Dolman, recognizing the needs of their growing family, made a conscious decision to step back from the entertainment industry. Her dedication allowed Short to pursue his comedic endeavors, becoming one of the most beloved figures in the industry. She was his anchor, his confidante, and the mother of their children.

Dolman's own career, though perhaps less celebrated, was not insignificant. She appeared in various television series, including a recurring role on the ABC sitcom "Soap." She also appeared in her husband's 1985 cable television special, "Martin Short: Concert for the North Americas." These roles, though consistent with her life as an actress, were often secondary to her devotion to her family. In various interviews, Short has shared the reasons why he has not pursued another relationship. His words reveal a deep loyalty and a profound respect for the bond he shared with Dolman. He has chosen, instead, to channel his energy into honoring her memory and ensuring their children thrive.

The impact of Dolman's passing was immediately felt within the entertainment community. Short, a nominee for his work on FXs "Damages," was forced to skip the Emmy Awards in the weeks following her death, a testament to the intensity of his grief. The outpouring of support from fans and colleagues alike underscored the high regard in which both Short and Dolman were held. The world mourned with him, offering comfort and solidarity during a time of immense personal pain.

The details surrounding Dolman's final days paint a picture of grace and dignity. She was under the care of a private physician, but the specifics of her illness remained largely private, out of respect for her and her family. The family chose to celebrate her life with a party. As a way to honour her life and cherish the memories, the family chose to jump into the ashes. The family's focus has always been on creating the best life possible for their children.

The couple's love story is a reminder that love can endure even beyond the confines of life. The pair were married for 36 years. The loss of his wife remains a defining experience in Martin Short's life. His openness about his grief has resonated with many, offering solace to those who have experienced similar losses. It's been nearly 10 years since Martin Short tragically lost his beloved wife, actress Nancy Dolman, to ovarian cancer, but time hasnt made her death any easier. During a new interview with.

Dolman's influence on Short's work is undeniable. Though she rarely appeared alongside him in his most famous comedic roles, her presence was always felt. Short's characters often possess a warmth and vulnerability that may well have been influenced by his profound love and respect for his wife. His ability to infuse his comedic performances with genuine heart is a testament to the deep connection they shared. Her impact, therefore, extends beyond their personal lives, influencing and enhancing the comedic genius of Martin Short. Martin Short has three kids with his late wife Nancy Dolman. Francesca Gariano is a contributing writer at People. She has been working at People since 2022. Her work has previously appeared in.

In the wake of her passing, Short has become an advocate for ovarian cancer awareness. He has used his platform to raise awareness about the disease and encourage early detection and treatment. He has remained focused on being the best father to their three adopted children. Through this effort, he has transformed his personal tragedy into a source of hope, reminding others of the importance of supporting those who have experienced such a loss. Her death was also discussed in "I must say: My life as a comedian", which was his 2014 memoir.

The story of Martin Short and Nancy Dolman is a poignant example of how love and loss can shape a life. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of memory and the importance of family. Their story is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the strength of love can prevail, guiding us through grief and inspiring us to cherish the moments we have.

Martin Short is finally ready to let go of the love nest he shared with his beloved wife, Nancy Dolman, 14 years after her death from ovarian cancer. The only murders in the building star has. Los Angeles (AP) Martin Short's wife, Nancy Dolman, has died. Martin short y nancy dolman se conocieron en 1972 ron galella, ltd. Si bien la expresin fue amor a primera vista resulta un tanto trillada o un clich disfrazado.

The legacy of Nancy Dolman, though perhaps overshadowed by her husband's fame, is one of warmth, love, and unwavering dedication to her family. She was born on 26 September 1951 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She was an actress, known for soap (1977), royal suite (1976) and it's a living (1980). The Canadian comedienne passed away on august 21 in the home she and short shared in. The obituary was featured in legacy on august 24, 2010. View their obituary at legacy.com. She was married to martin short. The family's enduring love is a testament to the power of connection. Her memory continues to inspire those who knew her, a shining example of how to embrace life and love fully, even in the face of adversity. Martin short and his wife nancy dolman.

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