Martin Short's career spans over five decades of shape-shifting character work, high-energy sketch comedy, and iconic cinematic performances. From his early days on SCTV and Saturday Night Live to leading roles in major Hollywood comedies and his recent triumphs in streaming television, his body of work is vast. Tracking his complete filmography reveals an actor who balances broad physical comedy with sharp theatrical timing.
Early Breakthroughs and Sketch Comedy Foundations
Before transitioning to feature films, Martin Short built his reputation on pioneering sketch comedy programs. His breakout work on Second City Television (SCTV) introduced viewers to neurotic suburbanites and eccentric interviewers. Characters like Ed Grimley became cultural touchstones, paving the way for his transition to Saturday Night Live during the 1984–1985 season.
- SCTV (1981–1984): Honed his skills alongside John Candy and Catherine O'Hara, creating unforgettable personas.
- Saturday Night Live (1984–2024): Brought Ed Grimley, Jackie Rogers Jr., and manic energy to American living rooms, returning frequently as a host and special guest.
- The Completely Mental Misadventures of Ed Grimley (1988): Voiced his signature character in an animated Saturday morning series.
Major Film Comedy Roles of the 1980s and 1990s
Short transitioned to the silver screen in the mid-1980s, establishing himself as a reliable comedic lead and dynamic supporting player. His partnership with Steve Martin and Chevy Chase in ¡Three Amigos! (1986) set a high bar for ensemble comedy. He followed this with a string of memorable cinematic outings where his hyperkinetic delivery stole scenes.
- ¡Three Amigos! (1986): Played Ned Nederlander, the earnest singing cowboy in John Landis's classic.
- Innerspace (1987): Starred as the anxious hypochondriac Jack Putter injected into a microscopic adventure alongside Dennis Quaid.
- Father of the Bride (1991) & Father of the Bride Part II (1995): Stole the spotlight as Franck Eggelhoffer, the delightfully eccentric wedding planner with an indecipherable accent.
- Captain Ron (1992): Played stressed family man Martin Harvey, chartering a yacht led by Kurt Russell's chaotic captain.
- Clifford (1994): Took on the unique challenge of playing a ten-year-old sociopathic prodigy terrorizing Charles Grodin.
Voice Acting and Animated Features
Beyond live-action performance, Short lent his distinct vocal stylings to numerous animated features. His theatricality translated naturally to cartoon characters, ranging from frantic sidekicks to memorable villains.
- The Prince of Egypt (1998): Provided the voice of Huy, serving alongside a star-studded voice cast.
- Treasure Planet (2002): Voiced B.E.N., the eccentric stranded robot.
- Barbie as the Princess and the Pauper (2004): Played the scheming villain Preminger.
- Frankenweenie (2012): Collaborated with Tim Burton by voicing multiple characters, including Mr. Bergermeister and Nassor.
- Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted (2012): Voiced Stefano the sea lion, adding physical and verbal acrobatics to the sequel.
Television Eras: From Jiminy Glick to Modern Streaming
Short never abandoned television, continually inventing new satirical formats. His creation of tabloid journalist Jiminy Glick on Primetime Glick (2001–2003) allowed him to improvise bizarre, awkward interviews with real-life celebrities. Later, he transitioned into critically acclaimed dramatic and comedic television arcs.
- Jiminy Glick in Lalawood (2004): Brought his interviewer alter-ego to the big screen.
- Damages (2010): Proved his dramatic range playing attorney Leonard Winstone alongside Glenn Close.
- Only Murders in the Building (2021–Present): Co-stars as theatrical director Oliver Putnam on the Hulu hit series alongside Steve Martin and Selena Gomez, earning widespread critical acclaim and Screen Actors Guild recognition.
Behind the Scenes and Stage Work
In addition to acting, Short conquered Broadway. He won a Tony Award for his starring role in the 1999 revival of Little Me. His contributions to the arts have been recognized globally, including receiving the Order of Canada. You can explore his full profile details via IMDb. For fans tracking his real-life creative partnership, the documentary STEVE! (martin) a documentary in 2 pieces offers deep insight into his decades-long friendship and working relationship with Steve Martin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Martin Short's first major movie role?
His first major feature film appearance was in the 1979 comedy Lost and Found, though he gained widespread cinematic prominence with ¡Three Amigos! in 1986.
How many times has Martin Short worked with Steve Martin?
The duo has collaborated extensively across decades, starting with ¡Three Amigos! (1986), co-hosting television specials, touring together in live comedy shows, and currently co-starring in Only Murders in the Building.
Did Martin Short win a Tony Award?
Yes, he won the Tony Award for Best Actor in a Musical in 1999 for his performance in the Broadway revival of Little Me.
What is Jiminy Glick?
Jiminy Glick is a fictional, overweight, pompous celebrity interviewer created and played by Martin Short, known for asking hilariously inappropriate questions to real actors and directors.
