Martin Short has spoken about his memories of the late Gilda Radner, describing the comedy icon as “hilarious, lively and warm” at a recent industry event.
Speaking on Thursday (May 7) at the Netflix Is a Joke festival in a conversation with David Letterman and Paul Shaffer, the 76-year-old actor opened up about his former girlfriend’s magnetic personality.
Short explained that when they first met in a 1972 Toronto production, Divine spellRadner was “exactly as wonderful as one could hope for”, noting that although every woman wanted to be her best friend, all the men were eager to date her.
THE Only murders in the building The star recalled the chaotic atmosphere of the auditions, comparing them to American idol like hundreds of young hopefuls aiming for roles.
Short and Radner were cast alongside other future legends like Eugene Levy and Victor Garber, at a time when they were just kids excited to do something creative.
According to Short, Radner made an immediate impression, approaching him at the first rehearsal to introduce himself and immediately proving funny.
However, the production also set the stage for a complicated romantic crossroads for Short.
While dating Radner, he met his understudy, Nancy Dolman, whom he described as an immense talent and an incredible singer.
Short previously admitted that he “loved Gilda,” but their relationship was turbulent, defined by constant breakups.
The transition between the two women happened remarkably quickly; after one particular breakup with Radner, Short arranged a tennis date with Dolman, only for Radner to phone a day later in hopes of reconciling.
Ultimately, Short stayed with Dolman and the couple married in 1980, remaining together for 36 years until her death in 2010.
In a tragic parallel to Radner’s death at age 42 in 1989, Dolman also died of ovarian cancer.
Short, who shared three adopted children with Dolman, recently faced new heartbreak, with the family announcing in February 2026 that their daughter, Katherine, had also died at the age of 42.
Despite the years and losses, Short’s fond memories of Radner’s dynamic spirit remain a testament to the close bond formed during their early days in the industry.
