Shannen Doherty, beloved for her roles in iconic ’90s TV shows, passed away on July 13 after a long battle with breast cancer. She was 53.
“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,” said Doherty’s publicist, Leslie Sloane.
Doherty was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, going into remission two years later. Unfortunately, in 2020, her cancer returned as Stage 4, spreading to other parts of her body. By June 2023, she revealed on Instagram that the cancer had metastasized to her brain.
Shannen Doherty’s early life began in Memphis, Tennessee, born on April 12, 1971. She moved to Los Angeles with her family at a young age and started her acting career at 10, appearing in “Father Murphy.” Michael Landon cast her in “Little House on the Prairie,” leading to a series of roles that established her career.
Her breakout role came with “Beverly Hills, 90210,” where she played Brenda Walsh. Doherty became a 1990s superstar, though her time on the show was marred by reports of on-set conflicts, especially with co-star Jennie Garth. Despite leaving after four seasons, she left an indelible mark on pop culture.
Following her departure from “90210,” Doherty continued to act, with notable roles including the film “Mallrats” and her return to television in “Charmed,” produced by Aaron Spelling. She played the role of Prue Halliwell for three seasons before leaving the show.
Doherty faced personal challenges, including two divorces and a battle with cancer that she bravely documented in the public eye. She reprised her role as Brenda Walsh in the 2008 reboot “90210” and the 2019 series “BH90210,” where she played a fictionalized version of herself.
Her co-stars expressed their grief and respect. Jason Priestley called her “a force of nature,” while Alyssa Milano acknowledged their complicated relationship but emphasized her admiration and respect for Doherty.
Doherty’s death marks the loss of another “Beverly Hills, 90210” star, following Luke Perry’s death in 2019. Her contributions to television and her courageous fight against cancer will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
