Actress Shannen Doherty, best known for her roles on TV's Beverly Hills, 90210, and Charmed, as well as the cult classic Heathers, has passed away at the age of 53. Doherty had been upfront about her struggles while battling cancer over the past few years.
"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 publicist, Leslie Sloane, said in a statement to People.
Doherty began her acting career at the age of 9, first on an episode of Father Murphy and then in the recurring role of Jenny on Little House on the Prairie. She recently spoke fondly of that role and mentor, Michael Landon.
"Little House shaped me in so many ways, and it still is the best experience of my entire career," Doherty said on her podcast Let's Be Clear in May. "And it was having a mentor like Michael Landon - and I don't care what anybody else's experience was like, I know the truth about that man, and he was just unbelievable."
After Little House, Doherty played Heather Duke, one of a trio of mean girls whom their high school classmate (played by Winona Ryder) targets for elimination in the film, Heathers. But her role on Beverly Hills, 90210 brought her widespread fame.
Doherty played Brenda Walsh, a high schooler who moves with her twin brother, Brandon (Jason Priestley), and their parents from Minnesota to the wealthy L.A. suburb. Though not an instant hit, the show took off with a batch of summer episodes in 1991, fueled in no small part by Brenda's on-again, off-again relationship with Dylan McKay, portrayed by the late Luke Perry.
She left the show in 1994 but returned to television in 1998 as one of three sister witches on the series Charmed alongside Holly Marie Combs and Alyssa Milano. Doherty blamed the latter for having her fired, a claim Milano has denied.
In addition to her iconic roles, Doherty's career included appearances in a variety of films and television shows, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her contributions to the entertainment industry extended beyond acting, as she also directed several episodes of Charmed and other TV shows.
Doherty's openness about her cancer diagnosis in 2015 garnered widespread support and admiration. She shared her journey candidly, raising awareness about the disease and providing inspiration to many. Her resilience and determination were evident as she continued to work and engage with her fans despite her illness.
Shannen Doherty's legacy is one of talent, strength, and enduring impact on the entertainment world. She leaves behind a body of work that will be remembered and cherished by fans for years to come. As we reflect on her life and career, we celebrate the remarkable woman who touched the hearts of many through her performances and her courageous spirit.
Tags: shannen doherty, beverly hills 90210, charmed, heathers
