Martin Short is a renowned actor, comedian, writer, and producer known for his incredible contributions to comedy and entertainment. Born on March 26, 1950, in Canada, Short became a household name through his hilarious sketches, comedic timing, and unique characters. He has entertained audiences for decades with his roles in SCTV, Saturday Night Live, and blockbuster films like Father of the Bride and Three Amigos.
Profile Summary
| Profile Summary | Details |
| Full Name | Martin Hayter Short OC |
| Date of Birth | March 26, 1950 |
| Place of Birth | Hamilton, Ontario, Canada |
| Occupation | Actor, comedian, writer |
| Notable Works | SCTV, Saturday Night Live, Only Murders in the Building, Three Amigos, Father of the Bride |
| Awards | – 2 Primetime Emmy Awards- Tony Award- Officer of the Order of Canada (2019) |
| Education | Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from McMaster University (1971) |
| Early Career | Started in theater with Godspell, joined Second City in Toronto before moving to the U.S. |
| Personal Life | Married to Nancy Dolman (deceased), has three children |
| Influences | Stan Laurel, Jerry Lewis, Dick Van Dyke |
| Current Projects | Co-starring in Only Murders in the Building alongside Steve Martin and Selena Gomez |
Martin Short is a celebrated Canadian-American comedian and actor known for his energetic performances and memorable characters. He gained fame through his work on notable television programs and films, earning numerous accolades throughout his career.
Early Life and Education
Born as Martin Hayter Short, he grew up in Canada in a close-knit family. He attended McMaster University, where he initially pursued a degree in social work before discovering his passion for performing. His early exposure to theater and comedy set the foundation for his later success.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Martin Hayter Short
- Birth Date: March 26, 1950
- Birthplace: Canada
- Education: McMaster University
- Career Start: 1970s
- Height: 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm)
- Weight: 150 lbs (68 kg)
Early Career and First Breakthroughs
SCTV Era
Short’s first significant break came in the late 1970s when he joined SCTV, a Canadian sketch comedy show. His ability to create memorable and eccentric characters made him a standout performer.
Notable SCTV Characters
- Ed Grimley – A quirky, over-the-top character that became his signature role.
- Jackie Rogers Jr. – A flamboyant, eccentric game show host.
- Troy Soren – A parody of Hollywood actors.
Saturday Night Live Success
In 1984, Martin Short joined Saturday Night Live (SNL), where he introduced audiences to iconic characters and impressions. His performance on SNL helped him break into Hollywood.
Key Contributions to SNL
- Revived the show’s energy after key cast members left.
- Introduced legendary characters like Ed Grimley.
- Famous impersonations of celebrities, including Jerry Lewis and Katharine Hepburn.
Earnings from Early Career
| Year | Show | Estimated Earnings |
| 1977-1984 | SCTV | $50,000 per season |
| 1984-1985 | Saturday Night Live | $75,000 per season |
Major Career Milestones
Breakthrough Films
After his success on SCTV and SNL, Martin Short transitioned into films, starring in several box-office hits.
Notable Movies
- Three Amigos (1986) – Starred alongside Steve Martin and Chevy Chase.
- Father of the Bride (1991, 1995) – Played the hilarious wedding planner Franck Eggelhoffer.
- Mars Attacks! (1996) – A sci-fi comedy directed by Tim Burton.
TV Show Success
Martin Short continued to dominate television with his own shows and appearances.
Popular TV Roles
- Primetime Glick (2001-2003) – Hosted a talk show as the outrageous character Jiminy Glick.
- Only Murders in the Building (2021-present) – Stars alongside Steve Martin and Selena Gomez.
Signature Comedy Style & Influence
Martin Short’s comedy is defined by physical humor, satire, and exaggerated characters. His influences include Jerry Lewis, Monty Python, and Johnny Carson. His ability to balance slapstick with sharp wit has made him a legend in the industry.
Defining Traits of His Comedy
- Over-the-top character acting
- Impeccable timing and improvisation
- Hilarious physical comedy and mannerisms
Awards and Industry Recognition
Short’s career is decorated with prestigious awards and nominations.
| Award | Show | Year |
| Emmy Award | SCTV | 1982 |
| Primetime Emmy | AFI Life Achievement Award: A Tribute to Mel Brooks | 2014 |
| Golden Globe Nomination | Primetime Glick | 2002 |
| Screen Actors Guild Award | Only Murders in the Building | 2022 |
Financial Success and Net Worth Breakdown
As of 2024, Martin Short’s net worth is estimated at $50 million, accumulated through his work in television, film, and live performances.
Sources of Income
- Movies & TV Shows – Major contributor to his wealth.
- Stand-up Comedy & Theater – Profitable Broadway appearances.
- Endorsements & Sponsorships – Collaborations with brands.
Real Estate Holdings and Investments
Martin Short has made strategic investments in real estate and assets.
| Property Location | Estimated Value |
| Los Angeles | $3 million |
| Canada | $2 million |
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Short was married to Nancy Dolman from 1980 until her passing in 2010. He has three children: Katherine, Oliver, and Henry. He remains active in philanthropy, donating to various charities and community projects.
Charitable Contributions
- Supports cancer research foundations.
- Donates to arts and theater programs.
- Actively participates in community outreach programs.
Social Media and Public Presence
Martin Short stays connected with fans through various media platforms.
Official Profiles
- IMDb: Click Here
- Wikipedia: Click Here
FAQs
Does Martin Short have a wife?
Martin Short was married to Nancy Dolman from 1980 until her passing in 2010.
How much is Martin Short worth?
As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $50 million.
Did Martin Short date Gilda Radner?
No, they were close friends but never dated.
Are Martin Short and Meryl Streep friends?
Yes, they share a strong friendship and often collaborate on projects.
Conclusion
Martin Short’s career spans over five decades, leaving an unforgettable mark in comedy, television, and film. From his breakthrough on SCTV and SNL to his iconic movie roles, he remains a beloved entertainer. His ability to make audiences laugh, along with his philanthropy and personal integrity, solidifies his status as one of the greatest comedic legends of all time.
