The Enduring Spirit of Martin Short

Tom Hanks once described his friend Martin Short as someone who ‘operates at the speed of joy.’ Short, reflecting on this, stated that he doesn’t analyze himself but accepts that as Hanks’ view. He believes he possesses the ‘happy gene’ with a natural inclination towards happiness.

For over 50 years, Short has captivated audiences with his vibrant energy and infectious smile. Considering his life’s challenges, his positive demeanor is remarkable. A new documentary titled Marty: Life Is Short, directed by Lawrence Kasdan, highlights Short’s journey. Kasdan, a family friend, had to convince Short to participate in the project. He utilized hours of home movies and contributions from friends like Hanks, Kurt Russell, and Steven Spielberg.

Despite his successes, Short’s life wasn’t void of hardship. He was 12 when his brother died in a car accident. During his teenage years, he also lost both of his parents. Short shared that these experiences taught him resilience and shifted his perspective on grief. He said these events gave him the courage to face any stage without fear.

In 1977, Short’s boldness led him to join Toronto’s Second City, alongside talents like Eugene Levy, John Candy, and Catherine O’Hara, who passed away in January. The documentary is dedicated to O’Hara, whom Short described as brilliant, sweet, and immensely funny. He recalls her supportive suggestions during performances.

The film mixes laughter and heartache, akin to Short’s life. His wife, Nancy Dolman, passed from ovarian cancer in 2010. Short fondly remembers their dynamic relationship. The documentary also honors their daughter, Katherine, a social worker who died by suicide earlier this year. Short speaks candidly about mental health, acknowledging it as a disease, like cancer, sometimes terminal despite a long struggle.

Short resides in Pacific Palisades, California. His home narrowly escaped recent fires, but his son’s home was not as fortunate. Short reflected on these trials, considering why he continues. The answer comes in simple moments with his grandsons, reminding him of life’s joys.

Short continues to work, with plans for another season of Only Murders In the Building and possible Broadway plans with Meryl Streep. He joked about the uncertainty of the box office and the gamble involved, notably with a talent like Streep.

In the documentary, Ron Howard questions why Short keeps pushing himself. Short believes it’s essential to share one’s gifts with others. Even in tough times, he finds humor and joy, reminiscent of how he kept working during his wife’s illness. Uncertain of whether working helped, he simply acknowledges the necessity of action during hard times.

Short concludes that facing challenges involves perseverance and seeking the light in dark moments.

WEB EXCLUSIVE: Watch an extended interview with Martin Short (Video)
Watch an extended interview: Martin Short

Marty: Life Is Short streams on Netflix starting May 12. For mental health resources, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or the National Alliance on Mental Illness Monday through Friday at 1-800-950-NAMI.