All About Martin Short: Career, Life, and Achievements

Why Martin Short Remains Comedy Royalty After Five Decades

Martin Short has captivated audiences for over 50 years as one of North America’s most beloved entertainers. The Canadian-American comedian, actor, and writer has built an extraordinary career spanning sketch comedy, blockbuster films, Broadway stages, and modern streaming hits.

Quick Facts About Martin Short:

Born: March 26, 1950 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Career Span: 1972–present (50+ years active)
Major Awards: 2 Emmy Awards, 1 Tony Award, Officer of the Order of Canada
Famous Characters: Ed Grimley, Jiminy Glick, Nathan Thurm
Notable Shows: SCTV, Saturday Night Live, Only Murders in the Building
Film Highlights: Three Amigos!, Father of the Bride, Innerspace
Current Salary: $600,000 per episode for Only Murders in the Building

Short’s journey began in Toronto theater before exploding onto television with SCTV’s legendary sketch comedy troupe. His manic energy and unforgettable characters like the nerdy Ed Grimley made him a household name.

The entertainer seamlessly transitioned between mediums – from his brief but memorable Saturday Night Live tenure to starring in major Hollywood comedies alongside Steve Martin. His Broadway work earned him a Tony Award for Little Me in 1999.

“What’s great about being a character actor is you know that you can survive forever,” Short once said, perfectly capturing his approach to longevity in entertainment.

Today, Short continues to thrive in the Emmy-nominated Hulu series Only Murders in the Building alongside Steve Martin and Selena Gomez, proving his comedic genius transcends generations.

Must-know martin short terms:

Who Is Martin Short? Early Life & Education

Martin Short entered the world on March 26, 1950, in Hamilton, Ontario, as the youngest of five children in a busy Irish-Catholic household. Born Martin Hayter Short, he grew up in a family where laughter and music filled the home, though his early years would be touched by both profound joy and heartbreaking loss.

His father, Charles Patrick Short, had quite the adventurous start to his Canadian story. Charles had actually stowed away from Ireland during the Irish War of Independence before eventually building a successful corporate career in his new homeland. His mother, Olive Hayter, brought music into their daily lives as a talented musician who performed concerts around the community.

Major Milestones in Martin Short’s Early Life

Growing up as the baby of the family, young Martin quickly learned that making people laugh was his superpower. He’d entertain his siblings with spot-on impressions and create characters that had the whole household in stitches. It was his natural way of bringing joy to those around him.

But life had other plans that would test his resilience early on. Martin Short faced tremendous loss during his formative years, losing his brother, mother, and father while still young. Rather than breaking his spirit, these experiences shaped what he later called his “Teflon quality” – an remarkable ability to bounce back and approach both comedy and life with fearless determination.

His time at Westdale Secondary School became a testing ground for his comedic talents. The combination of his family’s musical heritage and his instinct to use humor as both shield and sword began forming the foundation of his future entertainment career.

Education and First Steps Toward Entertainment

Like many young people, Martin Short initially chose the practical path. He enrolled at McMaster University to study social work, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree with plans to help others through traditional social services. It seemed like a sensible career choice for someone with his empathy and people skills.

Everything changed in 1972 when he decided to audition for a Toronto production of the musical Godspell. This wasn’t just any community theater production – it became a massive hit, running for an incredible 488 performances at Toronto’s Bayview Playhouse.

During this transformative run, Martin found himself completely captivated by professional theater. He was also dating fellow cast member Gilda Radner on and off, forming connections that would prove invaluable to his career trajectory. The energy, creativity, and pure joy of live performance convinced him to abandon his social work plans entirely.

His very first paid acting gig was delightfully humble – playing a giant Visa card in a 1972 television commercial. From social work degree to human credit card to comedy legend – now that’s a career pivot that paid off in ways he never could have imagined.

Rise to Stardom: SCTV, Saturday Night Live & Breakthrough Characters

The late 1970s and early 1980s transformed Martin Short from a promising theater performer into a comedy superstar. His journey through two of North America’s most influential sketch comedy shows created television magic and introduced audiences to unforgettable characters that still make people laugh today.

Martin Short on SCTV

Short’s comedy career took off when he joined Toronto’s Second City troupe in 1977, stepping into the shoes of John Candy in The Wizard of Ossington. At first, he worried about having a “phobia of being funny on demand,” but the improvisational environment quickly became his playground.

When Martin Short joined SCTV during the 1981-82 season, comedy history was made. The show was like a character factory, and Short became its most prolific inventor. His breakout creation was Ed Grimley – a hilariously nerdy character with hair gelled straight up who obsessed over mundane pop culture and constantly squeaked “I must say!”

But Ed Grimley was just the beginning. Short also brought to life Nathan Thurm, a paranoid, chain-smoking corporate executive who deflected every question with nervous energy, and Irving Cohen, showcasing his incredible range. Working alongside comedy legends like John Candy, Eugene Levy, Rick Moranis, and Catherine O’Hara, Short finded the magic of true ensemble comedy.

The cast chemistry on SCTV was pure gold. Each performer pushed the others to be funnier, weirder, and more creative. Short thrived in this supportive yet competitive environment, developing the fearless commitment to characters that would define his entire career.

Martin Short on Saturday Night Live

In 1984, NBC came calling with an offer Short couldn’t refuse. The network was trying to revive a struggling Saturday Night Live by offering big contracts to established stars. Short’s single season (1984-85) was like a comedy boot camp – intense, exhausting, and absolutely transformative.

Martin Short described his SNL experience as a “roller coaster of elation and anxiety.” The frantic pace was completely different from SCTV’s more relaxed schedule. He found himself working nearly around the clock, but the pressure brought out some of his most memorable work.

One sketch became legendary: Short and Harry Shearer as hopeful Olympic competitors in men’s synchronized swimming, complete with life preservers. The absurd premise perfectly captured Short’s willingness to dive headfirst into any comedic situation, no matter how ridiculous.

His celebrity impressions and musical talents shone during his SNL tenure. Though his time was brief, Short brought his beloved SCTV characters to a much larger American audience, cementing his status as a comedy star.

Breakthrough Roles in Television

Beyond sketch comedy, Martin Short began exploring other television formats that showcased his versatility. His early sitcom appearances and guest roles proved he could work within traditional narrative structures while still bringing his unique comedic energy.

The most significant breakthrough came with Jiminy Glick, Short’s brilliant parody of celebrity interviewers. This character – a paunchy, obsequious host who asked hilariously inappropriate questions – eventually got his own show. Primetime Glick ran from 2001 to 2003, featuring Short in elaborate prosthetics interviewing real celebrities while never breaking character.

The show ran for 63 episodes and became a cult favorite. Short’s commitment to staying in character as the bumbling Glick, even while interviewing major stars, demonstrated his fearless approach to comedy. It was this willingness to disappear completely into his characters that set him apart from other performers and established him as a true comedy original.

Film, Stage & Voice Work Highlights

Martin Short’s leap from television to film created some of comedy’s most treasured moments. His boundless energy and gift for creating unforgettable characters made him a natural fit for Hollywood, while his theatrical background kept drawing him back to the stage where he truly shines.

Iconic Film Performances

The magic began with Three Amigos! in 1986, where Short joined Steve Martin and Chevy Chase as hapless silent film stars who stumble into real danger in Mexico. This film launched one of comedy’s greatest partnerships and showed audiences Short’s incredible talent for physical comedy.

Innerspace (1987) gave Short his first major leading role as Jack Putter, a nervous grocery clerk who accidentally becomes the host for a miniaturized Dennis Quaid. His manic, neurotic performance carried the entire film and proved he could anchor a big-budget Hollywood production.

But it was Father of the Bride (1991) that gave Martin Short one of his most beloved characters. As Franck Eggelhoffer, the flamboyant wedding planner with his mysterious European accent, Short stole every scene he appeared in. His dramatic flair and over-the-top mannerisms made Franck instantly quotable and endlessly imitated.

The success continued with Clifford (1994), where Short took on the bizarre challenge of playing a mischievous 10-year-old boy despite being in his 40s. The film showcased his fearless commitment to even the most unusual roles. Later, he brought his comedic talents to family films like Jungle 2 Jungle and The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause, where he played the villainous Jack Frost with delicious glee.

Broadway & Stage Triumphs

The theater has always been Short’s first love, and Broadway welcomed him with open arms. His debut in The Goodbye Girl (1993) earned him a Tony nomination and reminded everyone that he could sing and dance as brilliantly as he could make people laugh.

His crowning theatrical achievement came with Little Me in 1999. Playing seven different characters in the same show, Short delivered a performance so extraordinary that it earned him the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical. Critics called it a masterclass in theatrical versatility.

Never one to rest on his laurels, Short created Fame Becomes Me in 2006, a one-man show that blended autobiography with variety entertainment. The production let him showcase every aspect of his talent while sharing personal stories with his audience in an intimate theater setting.

Acclaimed Voice & Animation Roles

Short’s distinctive voice found new life in animation. He brought his comedic timing to Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted, charmed audiences in Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie, and introduced himself to a new generation of fans as the Grandfather in The Addams Family (2019).

These voice roles allowed Short to reach younger audiences while proving that his comedy transcends age groups. His animated characters carry the same manic energy and heart that make his live-action performances so memorable.

Today, Short continues to captivate audiences in Only Murders in the Building alongside Steve Martin and Selena Gomez, proving that great comedy never goes out of style.

More about Martin Short on IMDb

Collaborations, Awards & Cultural Impact

Throughout his career, Martin Short has formed meaningful partnerships while earning recognition from his peers and the entertainment industry. His influence on modern comedy extends far beyond his own performances, creating a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of entertainers.

Awards & Honors Overview

Martin Short’s trophy case tells the story of excellence across every entertainment medium he’s touched. His 16 Primetime Emmy Award nominations speak to his consistent quality, with two wins that showcase both his creative range and collaborative spirit. He earned his first Emmy in 1983 for writing on SCTV Network, proving his behind-the-scenes talents matched his on-screen brilliance. His second Emmy recognized his producing work, highlighting how he’s evolved from performer to creative leader.

The 1999 Tony Award for Little Me remains his most cherished individual honor. Playing multiple roles in the Broadway revival, Short delivered what critics called a “tour de force” performance that demonstrated his extraordinary range as a musical theater performer. His earlier Tony nomination for The Goodbye Girl in 1993 had already established him as a Broadway force to be reckoned with.

Canada has acceptd its comedic son with open arms. In 2019, Short was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada, the nation’s highest civilian honor. This recognition came alongside the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002 and the Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. Perhaps most meaningfully, he received two stars on Canada’s Walk of Fame – one for his individual achievements in 2000 and another as part of the legendary SCTV cast in 2002.

Longtime Collaboration with Steve Martin

The friendship between Martin Short and Steve Martin represents one of entertainment’s most genuine and enduring partnerships. What began as a professional relationship during Three Amigos! has blossomed into a decades-spanning creative bond that seems to get stronger with time.

Their “An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life” tour from 2015-2019 proved that their chemistry translates beautifully to live performance. Martin’s masterful banjo playing complemented Short’s theatrical flair perfectly, creating shows that felt both polished and spontaneous. The tour’s success led to a Netflix special that brought their unique dynamic to living rooms worldwide.

Their current collaboration on Only Murders in the Building has introduced them to entirely new audiences. Short’s $600,000 per episode salary reflects not just the show’s success, but his continued value as a performer who can anchor a hit series. The Hulu show has earned critical acclaim and multiple Emmy nominations, proving that their partnership remains as creatively vital as ever.

What makes their collaboration special isn’t just the laughs – it’s the obvious affection and respect they share. Watching them work together feels like witnessing a masterclass in comedic timing and professional friendship.

Martin Short’s Influence on Modern Comedy

Martin Short didn’t just perform comedy – he helped reshape what character-driven humor could be. His fearless commitment to creating fully realized, often absurd characters like Ed Grimley and Jiminy Glick showed other performers that audiences would accept bold, uncompromising comedy.

His approach combines sharp writing with fearless physical performance. Whether he’s contorting his face for Nathan Thurm’s paranoid tics or embodying Franck Eggelhoffer’s flamboyant wedding planning energy, Short commits completely. This total dedication has become a template for character comedians who followed.

Beyond technique, Short’s reputation as one of the kindest people in show business has created ripple effects throughout the industry. Colleagues consistently describe his generosity and professionalism, qualities that have opened doors and created opportunities not just for himself, but for others he’s worked with.

Many contemporary comedians cite Martin Short as a direct influence, particularly praising his willingness to look foolish in service of a laugh. His mentorship – both formal and informal – has helped shape careers across television, film, and theater. In an industry often known for ego and competition, Short’s collaborative spirit stands as a reminder that success and kindness aren’t mutually exclusive.

Personal Life, Philanthropy & Recent Projects

Behind the manic energy and memorable characters, Martin Short has maintained strong family connections and given back to his community while continuing to evolve as a performer well into his seventh decade.

Family & Private Interests

Short was married to actress Nancy Dolman from 1980 until her death in 2010 after 30 years of marriage. Nancy, who appeared on Soap and other television shows, was a stabilizing force in Short’s life. He has spoken movingly about how she grounded him and provided perspective during his career’s most demanding periods.

The couple adopted three children: Katherine Elizabeth, Oliver Patrick, and Henry Short. Short has been protective of his family’s privacy while occasionally sharing how fatherhood changed his perspective on performance and success.

Short maintains dual Canadian-American citizenship and splits time between Los Angeles and his beloved cottage in Muskoka, Ontario. He’s a passionate fan of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats football team, maintaining his connection to his hometown despite decades in show business.

Giving Back

Short has consistently used his platform for charitable causes. He participated in the 2017 “Take Off, Eh” benefit for Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, which raised $325,000. The event reunited SCTV alumni and featured Rick Moranis and Dave Thomas reprising their McKenzie Brothers characters.

He serves on the advisory board of the Harold Ramis Film School, honoring his late friend and colleague while supporting the next generation of filmmakers. Short has also participated in numerous charity concerts and fundraising events, often donating his performance fees to worthy causes.

Evolution & Current Endeavors

Only Murders in the Building represents a career renaissance for Short. The show’s success has introduced him to streaming audiences while proving his continued relevance in modern entertainment. His chemistry with co-stars Steve Martin and Selena Gomez has been praised by critics and audiences alike.

Recent seasons have featured guest stars like Meryl Streep, with whom Short has developed both an on-screen romantic storyline and genuine friendship. He has spoken about initially being nervous to work with the three-time Oscar winner but finding her warm and collaborative.

Looking ahead, Short continues to explore new projects while maintaining his commitment to live performance. His recent appearance at the 2025 Prostate Cancer Foundation Palm Beach Gala alongside Steve Martin demonstrates his ongoing appeal for high-profile charity events.

Frequently Asked Questions about Martin Short

What is Martin Short best known for?

Martin Short has built his legendary reputation on creating unforgettable characters that stick with audiences for decades. His manic, nerdy Ed Grimley character – with that distinctive upright hair and constant exclamations of “I must say!” – became a cultural phenomenon during his time on SCTV and Saturday Night Live.

Beyond his sketch comedy roots, Short became a beloved movie star through his collaborations with Steve Martin. His scene-stealing performance as the flamboyant wedding planner Franck Eggelhoffer in Father of the Bride remains one of his most quoted roles. The trio of Three Amigos!, Innerspace, and Father of the Bride established him as a bankable film comedian.

Today’s audiences know Martin Short best from the Emmy-nominated Hulu series Only Murders in the Building, where his chemistry with Steve Martin and Selena Gomez has introduced his comedic genius to streaming viewers. His ability to reinvent himself while staying true to his character-driven comedy style explains his remarkable five-decade career.

How many awards has Martin Short won?

Martin Short’s trophy case reflects excellence across every entertainment medium. He has earned two Primetime Emmy Awards from an impressive 16 nominations, recognizing both his writing contributions to SCTV and his producing work.

His greatest individual honor came from Broadway, where he won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his powerhouse performance in Little Me in 1999. The role required him to play multiple characters and showcased his singing, dancing, and acting abilities all in one show.

Canada has honored its native son extensively. Short was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2019 – the nation’s highest civilian honor. He also received both the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal and Diamond Jubilee Medal, plus two stars on Canada’s Walk of Fame.

These major awards represent just the tip of the iceberg. Martin Short has received recognition from comedy festivals, theater organizations, and entertainment guilds throughout his career, cementing his status as one of North America’s most celebrated performers.

Is Martin Short still performing today?

At age 74, Martin Short shows absolutely no signs of slowing down. His current starring role in Only Murders in the Building has become one of Hulu’s biggest hits, earning him $600,000 per episode and proving his continued market value in the streaming era.

The show’s success has surprised even industry veterans. Short’s portrayal of the theatrical Oliver Putnam alongside Steve Martin and Selena Gomez has earned critical acclaim and multiple Emmy nominations. Recent seasons have featured A-list guest stars like Meryl Streep, with whom Short has developed both an on-screen romance and genuine friendship.

Beyond television, Martin Short continues touring with Steve Martin in their live comedy shows. Their “An Evening You Will Forget for the Rest of Your Life” tour has been so successful that it spawned a Netflix special and continues to sell out venues across North America.

His recent appearance at charity galas and award shows demonstrates that his energy and comedic timing remain as sharp as ever. Martin Short has mastered the art of aging gracefully in entertainment, finding new audiences while delighting longtime fans with his timeless approach to character comedy.

Conclusion

Martin Short’s extraordinary five-decade journey from Hamilton, Ontario to Hollywood royalty proves that authentic talent combined with genuine kindness creates lasting magic. His career isn’t just a success story – it’s a masterclass in artistic evolution and human connection.

What makes Short’s legacy so remarkable is how he transformed early tragedy into comedic gold. Those childhood losses that forged his “Teflon quality” became the very foundation of his fearless approach to performance. Whether he was bringing Ed Grimley’s manic energy to life or diving headfirst into the absurdity of Jiminy Glick, Short never held back.

His partnership with Steve Martin exemplifies what happens when two masters of their craft genuinely enjoy working together. Their friendship has produced decades of laughter, from Three Amigos! to their current triumph in Only Murders in the Building. At $600,000 per episode, Short’s current success proves that great comedy truly is timeless.

But perhaps Martin Short’s greatest achievement isn’t his Tony Award or his Emmy wins – it’s his reputation as one of entertainment’s kindest souls. In an industry that can be ruthless, he’s built a career on lifting others up while making audiences laugh until their sides hurt.

At PARK Ave Magazine, we celebrate artists who understand that true sophistication comes from mastering your craft while remaining genuinely human. Short embodies this perfectly, whether he’s accepting his Officer of the Order of Canada honor or simply making his co-stars break character during a scene.

As he continues to delight new generations of fans, one thing becomes crystal clear: Martin Short isn’t just a comedy legend – he’s proof that staying curious, kind, and completely committed to your art can create a legacy that spans lifetimes.

For more insights into the entertainment figures shaping our cultural landscape, explore our culture section where we continue to profile the artists and performers who define sophistication in the modern era.