Shannen Doherty, the famed star of Beverly Hills, 90210, and Charmed has passed away at age 53.
According to CNN, her passing was confirmed by her longtime publicist, Leslie Sloane, after an extended fight with breast cancer.
On Saturday, July 13, the world lost Shannen Doherty. The actress, who battled breast cancer for nine years, died surrounded by loved ones and her dog, Bowie. The news was confirmed by her publicist, Leslie Sloane, and first reported by People magazine.
Doherty, born in Memphis, Tennessee, began her acting career at the age of ten. Michael Landon noticed her talent and cast her in Little House on the Prairie, which marked the start of her prominent career. A few years later, she became a household name with her role as Brenda Walsh in Beverly Hills, 90210.
Doherty's portrayal of Brenda Walsh in "Beverly Hills, 90210" captured the hearts of many. Despite her success, she departed from the show after four seasons due to on-set tensions. Doherty did not let this departure hamper her career and returned to film with roles in "Almost Dead" (1994) and "Mallrats" (1995).
Her career advanced with her role as Prue Halliwell in "Charmed" from 1998 to 2001, gaining a significant following. Afterward, she appeared in various movies and reprised her role as Brenda in the "90210" reboot in 2008. Recently, Doherty returned to the screen in "BH90210" and "Riverdale," showcasing her dedication to her craft and earning widespread respect.
Doherty's struggle with breast cancer began in 2015. The cancer went into remission in 2017 but returned in 2020 as stage 4. In June 2023, she publicly shared that the cancer had spread to her brain, documenting her journey through a podcast titled "Let's Be Clear with Shannen Doherty."
Her efforts to remain transparent about her condition inspired many. In one of her podcast episodes, she expressed her views on cherishing life’s smaller moments and the importance of maintaining strength in the face of adversity. Her resilience and openness created a supportive community for those facing similar battles.
Leslie Sloane, Doherty’s publicist, confirmed her passing with these words, "It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease."
Doherty's former co-stars and friends expressed their grief and conveyed heartfelt tributes. Gabrielle Carteris, Jason Priestley, Brian Austin Green, and Rose McGowan were among the many who took to social media to honor Doherty’s memory. Their words highlighted her strength, passion, and indomitable spirit.
Gabrielle Carteris mourned, saying, "May you RIP Shannon. I know Luke is there with open arms to love you." Jason Priestley called her "a force of nature," emphasizing the impact she had on those around her. Brian Austin Green admitted he did not know "how to process" losing her.
Rose McGowan, who starred alongside Doherty in "Charmed," remarked on their unique bond. Despite external pressures to create tension, they chose respect and love. McGowan lauded Doherty as a "soft-hearted badass" whose energy would live on forever in their hearts.
With her contributions to film and television and her unyielding fight against cancer, Shannen Doherty's memory will be cherished. She leaves behind an inspiring example of living life fully and authentically, even in adversity.
