It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of Shannen Doherty’s passing. At the age of 53, the beloved actress lost her battle with cancer on July 13. Shannen’s long-time publicist, Leslie Sloane, shared the news in an exclusive statement to PEOPLE on July 14.
In her final moments, surrounded by her loving family and her loyal dog, Bowie, Shannen Doherty peacefully transitioned. The family has requested privacy during this time of mourning.
Shannen Doherty, best known for her iconic role in Beverly Hills, 90210, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. In November 2023, she courageously opened up about her stage 4 breast cancer, which had spread to her bones. She expressed her determination to keep fighting and said, “I wanna keep living. I still love people. I have more things to make. Hopefully, I’m not done making things better.”
Despite going into remission in April 2017, the cancer returned in 2019. Shannen revealed her diagnosis of metastatic stage 4 cancer the following year, and later disclosed that the disease had spread to her brain. In June 2023, she underwent surgery to remove a brain tumor.
Throughout her journey, Shannen Doherty remained steadfast in her commitment to work and defy the limitations of her illness. She wanted to show the world that people with terminal cancer, like her, are still unique and have so much to offer. She aimed to raise awareness and funds for cancer research, while inspiring others not to lose hope.
Shannen’s candidness and honesty were evident in her 2020 interview with Amy Robach on Good Morning America. She shared her struggles and the impact her illness had on her health. Despite the challenges, she questioned, “Why not me? One more person? Not only me, but who else deserves this? Of course, none of us do.”
Shannen Doherty’s career spanned beyond Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed. She worked steadily, even exploring reality TV and participating in Dancing with the Stars. In 2019, she returned as Brenda Walsh in the TV reboot of Beverly Hills, 90210, honoring the memory of her late co-star Luke Perry.
Shannen’s resilience and fortitude were recognized by her fellow actors. Brian Austin Green admired her strength, stating, “Shannen is definitely setting a good example and showing people that you can be a good person even when things are hard. She’s a wonderful person and an inspiration.”
In her final interview with PEOPLE in 2023, Shannen Doherty’s love for life shone through. She expressed gratitude for each day she spent with her family, her friends, and her beloved dog. She remained hopeful about the future, saying, “My best memory is still to come. I worship, I thank God and pray for the things that are important to me. Belief is my mantra.”
Having battled cancer, Shannen had a newfound appreciation for life’s moments and the beauty surrounding her. She recognized the preciousness of every second, hour, and day. Through her journey, she showed us the strength and resilience within us all.
As we bid farewell to Shannen Doherty, let us remember her as a courageous soul who faced adversity with grace and a determination to make a difference. May her spirit inspire us to cherish every moment and to always find hope, no matter the circumstances.
