I just finished watching Marty, Life is Short on Netflix. Some performers make you laugh. A rare few make you feel. And then there’s Martin Short — a Canadian treasure who somehow manages to do both at once, with a twinkle in his eye and a generosity of spirit that has shaped decades of comedy.
His new Netflix documentary is more than a look back at a remarkable career. It’s a love letter to resilience, creativity, and the unmistakable warmth of a Canadian kid who grew up to become one of the most beloved entertainers in the world.
Martin Short’s story begins in Hamilton, Ontario — a place known for steel, grit, and hardworking families. It’s also where a young Marty learned the power of humour as a way to connect, comfort, and cope.
He didn’t set out to become a global star. In fact, he originally planned to work in social work. But talent has a way of insisting on being seen, and soon he found himself on the stages of SCTV, surrounded by a constellation of Canadian comedic brilliance: Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Andrea Martin, John Candy, and Rick Moranis.
Those early years weren’t just a training ground — they were a creative explosion. Characters like Ed Grimley and Jiminy Glick weren’t just funny; they were unforgettable. And they carried Marty straight into the heart of American comedy, including Saturday Night Live and a long list of iconic film roles.
What sets Martin Short apart isn’t just his talent — it’s his kindness.
Colleagues describe him as generous, collaborative, and endlessly encouraging. He lifts others up. He shares the spotlight. He treats every project, big or small, with the same enthusiasm and professionalism.
And through it all, he has remained unmistakably Canadian: humble, self‑deprecating, and grounded.
His Order of Canada — one of our country’s highest honours — isn’t just a recognition of his career. It’s a recognition of his character.
The new documentary captures Marty’s life with the same blend of humour and heart that defines his work.
And for us here in British Columbia, there’s a special delight: parts of the film were shot at the Vancouver Aquarium — a beautiful nod to the West Coast and a reminder of how deeply Canadian Marty remains, even after decades in Hollywood.
This is a wonderful documentary that will show the tragedy in his life and his love for friends and family.
