Who Is Oliver Patrick Short? Martin Short’s Son with a Story of His Own

When you hear the name Martin Short, you probably think of funny movies, Broadway shows, and his hit series Only Murders in the Building. But behind all the lights and laughs, there’s a quiet, thoughtful man — and he has a son who’s just as interesting in his own way.

Meet Oliver Patrick Short, the middle child of Martin Short and his late wife, Nancy Dolman. Unlike his famous dad, Oliver doesn’t love the spotlight. He’s chosen a life behind the scenes — calm, private, and successful on his own terms.

In this article, we’re going to learn all about Oliver Patrick Short. We’ll explore his childhood, family, career, and the special stories that shaped his life. You’ll see why even without being a celebrity, Oliver’s journey is one worth knowing.

Oliver Patrick Short Quick Bio

Who Is Oliver Patrick Short?

Oliver Patrick Short is best known as the son of actor and comedian Martin Short. But there’s so much more to him than just being a celebrity’s child. Born on April 29, 1986, Oliver is now 39 years old and lives a quiet life that many people are just now becoming curious about.

He was adopted as a baby by Martin Short and his wife, Nancy Dolman, who raised him with love, laughter, and strong family values. Oliver grew up in a peaceful home with two siblings — an older sister and a younger brother. While his dad was making people laugh on TV and in movies, Oliver was learning how to build a life away from fame.

Today, people are finally starting to ask, “Who is Oliver Patrick Short?” And the answer is: someone kind, hardworking, and quietly impressive.

Oliver’s Early Life at Home

Oliver grew up in Pacific Palisades, a beautiful area in Los Angeles, California. His parents were both in the entertainment world — Martin in comedy and movies, and Nancy as an actress — but they always made time for their children.

Oliver’s mom, Nancy Dolman, left acting in 1985 so she could focus fully on raising the kids. She was known to be warm, smart, and full of love. Martin and Nancy wanted their children to have a normal, grounded childhood, even though they lived in a world of fame.

Instead of being pushed into the spotlight, Oliver was raised to be humble, independent, and kind. He played sports, went to school nearby, and enjoyed a simple home life. His parents didn’t spoil their children — they taught them values, respect, and the importance of hard work.

Growing Up with Martin Short as a Dad

Having a famous dad sounds exciting, right? But Martin Short always tried to keep things normal at home. He was a funny and loving father, but also made sure his kids grew up with structure and honesty.

In interviews, Martin has joked that he wanted his children to become actors, just like him. He even said he would pretend to be a coach, yelling from the balcony, “Quitter! Do it again!” while the kids ran laps. Of course, this was all in good fun.

But in truth, Martin never forced his kids into anything. He gave them room to discover who they were. Oliver, it turns out, wasn’t drawn to the stage or cameras. He liked working quietly behind the scenes. He preferred a career that let him think, plan, and create — without needing the spotlight.

Growing up in that home wasn’t about being famous. It was about being part of a strong, close family — one that supported each other through everything, including the hard times.

Oliver Patrick Short’s School and College Life

Oliver did his early schooling in Los Angeles, staying close to home. When it came time for college, he chose to attend the University of Notre Dame, a well-respected university known for its strong programs and tight-knit community.

There, Oliver studied Film and Television Production, showing an early interest in the creative world — but still from behind the camera. He wasn’t trying to become an actor or director. He liked working in production, where the real planning and teamwork happened.

While at Notre Dame, Oliver was active in campus life. He coached the women’s ice hockey team and led the men’s snowboard club as captain. These leadership roles showed that he was confident, organized, and a team player — skills that would later help in his career.

He graduated in 2008, ready to enter the working world with a clear goal: to make a name for himself, in his own quiet way.

Oliver’s Career in TV and Sports Media

After college, Oliver didn’t wait around. He jumped into the entertainment world — but not as a performer like his dad. He began his career in production, working hard behind the scenes.

His first big step was becoming an assistant at William Morris Endeavor, a top talent agency. That role helped him learn how the industry works. From there, he became an executive assistant at Warner Bros. Pictures — one of the biggest names in Hollywood.

But Oliver’s path didn’t stop there. He later worked at FOX Sports, where he started as a broadcast associate and then moved up to senior associate producer. He also had short but valuable roles at MLB Network and NBC Sports, learning more about TV production, sports media, and storytelling.

In 2020, he joined A. Smith & Co. Productions as an associate producer, where he stayed for over two years. Most recently, in 2022, Oliver worked as a contestant producer on the game show “Generation Gap” — a fun and family-friendly TV show.

He has built a strong and steady career by being consistent, focused, and quietly excellent. He never needed to be famous — he just wanted to do good work.

Why Oliver Didn’t Become an Actor

Many people assume that children of famous actors want to follow the same path. But Oliver Patrick Short didn’t feel that way.

Even though he grew up watching his dad make people laugh on stage and screen, Oliver knew early on that performing wasn’t for him. Martin Short even joked in interviews that he tried to “push” his kids into acting. He would pretend to coach them with funny lines like, “Do it again, quitter!” But it was always in a playful way.

Oliver had his own dreams. He liked working behind the camera — not in front of it. He enjoyed planning, organizing, and helping make things run smoothly. Acting didn’t feel right to him, and his parents respected that. Instead of chasing fame, Oliver quietly built his own career, his own way.

A Sad Goodbye to His Mom

In 2010, when Oliver was 24 years old, his mom, Nancy Dolman, passed away after battling ovarian cancer. It was a heartbreaking time for the whole family.

Nancy didn’t want a big funeral. She told Martin that she preferred something simple. After her passing, the family honored her wish. They held a small gathering with about 30 close friends and family at their cottage in Lake Rosseau, Canada.

Martin and the three kids — Katherine, Oliver, and Henry — got into a boat and spread her ashes into the lake. Then, in a moment that was both emotional and beautiful, they jumped into the water together. It was their way of saying goodbye.

Oliver has never spoken publicly about that day, but Martin has shared how deeply it touched them all. That peaceful goodbye became one of the most meaningful moments of their lives.

A Strong Bond with His Dad

After Nancy’s death, Martin Short became the center of the family. And even though he was grieving too, he stayed strong for his children.

In interviews, Martin said that his kids helped him keep going. They gave him a reason to stay active and hopeful. He once said, “With three kids, you don’t really have a choice — you keep going for them.”

Oliver and his dad have been seen together at events over the years. Sometimes it’s a red carpet, other times it’s a benefit show or Broadway opening. Even though Oliver doesn’t like fame, he still supports his dad when it matters.

Their bond seems deep — quiet, respectful, and full of love. Martin has often called his children the “greatest joy” in his life. And it’s clear that Oliver means a lot to him.

Meet Oliver’s Brother and Sister

Oliver Patrick Short is the middle child in the family. He has an older sister and a younger brother — and both of them, like Oliver, have chosen private careers.

His sister, Katherine Elizabeth Short, was born in 1983. She studied psychology and social work and now works as a licensed therapist. She’s passionate about mental health and has been involved with programs like Bring Change 2 Mind, which helps reduce the stigma around mental illness.

His younger brother, Henry Hayter Short, was born in 1989. He also went to the University of Notre Dame like Oliver. After college, he worked in finance and later became a veterinary assistant at an animal hospital in Malibu, California.

The three siblings are close. They’ve appeared together at events with their dad and always seem to support one another. Even though they aren’t famous, they’ve each made strong and thoughtful choices in life.

Oliver’s Rare Public Appearances

Unlike many celebrity kids, Oliver doesn’t share much online. He doesn’t post pictures, give interviews, or use social media. That’s why people are often surprised when they see him at a public event.

But he has made a few rare appearances. In 2006, he attended the Night of Too Many Stars charity event with his dad and sister. He was also at the Broadway opening of Martin Short: Fame Becomes Me, where the whole family posed for photos together.

In 2011, Oliver joined Martin at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party, again with his sister Katherine. He always appears calm, polite, and happy to be by his family’s side.

Still, Oliver prefers his private world. He stays focused on his work and family — not on being in magazines or interviews.

Where Is Oliver Patrick Short Now?

As of 2025, Oliver Patrick Short is still living a quiet life. He hasn’t been in the news much, and that’s exactly how he likes it.

His last known job was as a contestant producer on the TV game show Generation Gap, which aired in 2022. Before that, he had steady jobs in TV production and sports broadcasting — working with big names like FOX Sports, NBC Sports, and Warner Bros.

He’s believed to live in either California or New York, but he hasn’t confirmed that publicly. There’s no official Instagram or Twitter for him, which makes it hard to follow his life — but that’s part of his quiet charm.

Oliver isn’t chasing fame. He’s just doing what he loves and living life on his own terms.

Final Thoughts

Oliver Patrick Short may not be a household name like his dad, but he’s built a strong and meaningful life. He’s a perfect example of someone who grew up around fame — and chose to stay grounded.

He’s a loyal son, a hardworking professional, and a caring brother. His journey shows us that you don’t have to be loud to be important. You can be steady, kind, and successful — all while staying out of the spotlight.

Martin Short often says that his greatest role in life is being a dad. And looking at Oliver’s story, it’s easy to see why. He raised a son who followed his own path — and that path, though quiet, is full of heart.

(FAQs)

Is Oliver Patrick Short married?

No, Oliver Patrick Short has never publicly revealed a wife or wedding. He keeps his love life very private, and as of 2025, there are no known details about any relationships or marriage.

How old is Oliver Patrick Short now?

Oliver was born on April 29, 1986, which makes him 39 years old in 2025. Surprisingly, despite being the son of a world-famous actor, he has stayed completely out of the spotlight for decades.

Does Oliver Patrick Short use Instagram?

No, and that’s shocking in 2025! Oliver has no public Instagram, Twitter, or social media accounts. He chooses to live offline in a very private way.

What is Oliver Patrick Short’s net worth?

His net worth is not public, but he likely earns well from his behind-the-scenes TV work. He’s worked at big companies like Warner Bros., FOX Sports, and NBC — yet you’ll find almost nothing about his income online.

Where is Oliver Patrick Short today?

Today, Oliver lives a quiet life away from fame — possibly in California or New York. He still works in media production but stays completely out of the public eye. No interviews. No social media. No headlines.