Shannen Doherty, widely recognized for her iconic roles in ‘Charmed’ and “Beverly Hills, 90210”, passed away on Saturday at the age of 53. Her publicist, Leslie Sloane, confirmed the news, stating that Doherty died after a long battle with breast cancer. The Associated Press reported on the announcement.
Battle with Cancer
Doherty’s struggle with cancer was publicly revealed in 2015 through a lawsuit. She had sued her former business manager, claiming that his poor management of her health insurance led to a delay in her diagnosis. Subsequently, Doherty shared intimate details of her treatment, including undergoing a single mastectomy. In December 2016, she posted a photo of her first day of radiation therapy on social media, describing the experience as ‘frightening.’
In February 2020, Doherty disclosed that her cancer had returned and had advanced to stage four. She explained that she went public with this information because her health status could emerge during legal proceedings. Doherty was embroiled in a lawsuit against insurance giant State Farm following a fire that damaged her California home in 2018.
Final Moments and Family Statement
According to her publicist, Doherty spent her final moments surrounded by loved ones, including her dog, Bowie. In a statement, Sloane requested privacy for the family during their time of grief. People magazine was the first to report the news of her passing.
Early Life and Career
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Shannen Doherty moved to Los Angeles with her family at the age of seven. She quickly found her footing in the entertainment industry, landing steady roles as a child actor. One of her early notable roles was in the TV series “Little House on the Prairie,” where she played Jenny Wilder. As a teenager, she transitioned to film, appearing in “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” (1985) and the cult classic ‘Heathers’.
Breakout Role in ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’
Doherty’s breakthrough came in 1990 when she was cast as Brenda Walsh in Aaron Spelling’s hit series “Beverly Hills, 90210.” The show, set in the affluent Beverly Hills area, featured Doherty and Jason Priestley as Brenda and Brandon Walsh, twin siblings adjusting to life in a new and glamorous environment. Her portrayal of Brenda Walsh made her a household name and cemented her status as a teenage icon of the 1990s. She left the show at the end of its fourth season in 1994, though the series continued until 2000.
Shannen Doherty’s contributions to television and film have left an indelible mark on the industry. Her roles in popular series and movies have endeared her to fans around the world, and her openness about her battle with cancer has inspired many. She will be remembered as a talented actress, a devoted family member, and a courageous individual who faced her challenges with grace and honesty.