Netflix Unveils Bombshell Documentary on Comedy Icon Martin Short: ‘Marty, Life Is Short’ Set for May Premiere

By Grow Nguyen, Entertainment Correspondent Hanoi, Vietnam – January 21, 2026

Netflix has dropped exciting news for comedy fans worldwide: a definitive documentary celebrating the life and career of beloved comedian Martin Short is on the way. Titled Marty, Life Is Short, the film is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Lawrence Kasdan and will premiere globally on the streaming platform on May 12, 2026. This intimate portrait promises to peel back the layers on one of entertainment’s most enduring and energetic personalities, blending never-before-seen archival footage with candid interviews from Short himself and a roster of his famous friends.

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Martin Short, the 75-year-old Emmy-winning performer known for his fearless, over-the-top comedy style, has long been a private figure despite his larger-than-life public persona. From his early days as a writer and performer on the groundbreaking Canadian sketch series SCTV in the 1970s to his iconic run on Saturday Night Live during the 1984-85 season, Short has built a legacy of unforgettable characters and infectious energy. His film roles in classics like Three Amigos! (1986), Father of the Bride (1991), and more recent triumphs such as his scene-stealing work in Only Murders in the Building alongside Steve Martin and Selena Gomez have cemented his status as a comedy legend.

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The documentary, described by Netflix as the “definitive” exploration of Short’s journey, will trace his eclectic path across television, film, theater, and stand-up. It highlights his rise from improv mastery on SCTV—where he shared the stage with legends like John Candy and Eugene Levy—to Hollywood hits and his current reign as a fan-favorite on Hulu’s hit mystery-comedy series. Short’s ability to make any moment “as loud as possible” with his wild physicality and razor-sharp timing has made him a beloved figure, but the film delves deeper into the personal challenges he’s faced, offering a rare glimpse into the man behind the mania.

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Directing this project is Lawrence Kasdan, the Oscar-nominated writer behind blockbusters such as Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and The Force Awakens. Kasdan, who also directed The Big Chill and Body Heat, previously collaborated with Short on the 1999 comedy-drama Mumford. His involvement brings a thoughtful, cinematic touch to the documentary, ensuring it balances humor with heartfelt reflection. Produced by Imagine Documentaries (with executive producers Brian Grazer and Ron Howard) alongside Sara Bernstein, Meredith Kaulfers, Christopher St. John, Justin Wilkes, Kasdan, and Blair Foster, the film combines exclusive new interviews with a treasure trove of rare footage.

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One of the most anticipated elements is the participation of Short’s longtime friend and collaborator Steve Martin. The two comedy titans have shared the stage and screen for decades, from their live tours to Only Murders in the Building, where their chemistry has delighted audiences. Martin is expected to offer personal insights and hilarious anecdotes, shedding light on their enduring friendship and the highs and lows of Short’s career. The documentary will also feature interviews with other “established and beloved stars,” promising a star-studded tribute to Short’s influence on generations of comedians.

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Short has always maintained a level of privacy unusual for someone so publicly exuberant, making this project particularly intriguing. The film will explore not just the laughs but the personal trials—including losses and challenges—that have shaped him. As Short himself has hinted in past interviews, his comedy often served as a shield and a celebration, and Marty, Life Is Short aims to honor both sides. With archival gems from his SNL days, SCTV sketches, and behind-the-scenes moments, viewers can expect a comprehensive, emotional ride through one of comedy’s most vibrant careers.

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As the May 12 premiere approaches, anticipation is building among fans eager for this rare deep dive. In an era of streaming tell-alls, this documentary stands out for its blend of reverence and revelation, directed by a Hollywood heavyweight and centered on a performer who’s given so much joy while keeping much of himself under wraps. Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Short’s Ed Grimley antics or a newer fan from his Only Murders role, this promises to be essential viewing. Netflix subscribers can mark their calendars—Marty, Life Is Short is set to deliver laughs, tears, and plenty of surprises.