The cast of *Beverly Hills, 90210* has begun to express their grief following the death of former co-star Shannen Doherty. The actress passed away at the age of 53 after a long battle with cancer, as confirmed by her publicist, Leslie Sloane, on July 14, 2023. Sloane stated, “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 was surrounded by loved ones, including her beloved dog, Bowie, at the time of her passing. The family has requested privacy as they navigate this difficult time. The news of her death shocked many, and fellow cast members quickly took to social media to pay tribute to her life and legacy.
Tributes from Friends and Co-Stars
Among the first to share their condolences was Jason Priestley, who wrote on Instagram, “Shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of my friend Shannen. She was a force of nature and I will miss her. Sending love and light to her family in this dark time.”
The actress’s journey with cancer began in 2015, when she was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer. After a period of remission, she revealed in 2020 that the cancer had spread to her bones. In a November 2023 interview with *People*, she expressed her desire to continue living, stating, “I don’t want to die. I’m not done with living. I’m not done with loving. I’m not done with creating.”
Her co-stars, including Gabrielle Carteris and Tori Spelling, also shared heartfelt messages. Carteris remarked, “So young – so sad. May you RIP Shannen. I know Luke is there with open arms to love you,” referencing their late co-star, Luke Perry, who died in 2019.
Spelling, in a more personal tribute, reflected on their long friendship, stating, “I don’t have outward words yet. But we knew and that’s what matters.” She emphasized the impact Doherty had on her life, calling her a mentor and a source of strength.
Reflections on a Life and Career
Other cast members continued to share their memories of Doherty. Brian Austin Green expressed his deep emotional connection, saying, “You loved me through everything. You were a big part of my understanding of love.”
In a touching reflection, Matthew Laurance noted, “So much of her life was difficult and complicated… I had a wonderful relationship with her.” He expressed gratitude for their time together, especially a recent reunion at the Lexington Comic Con.
Jennie Garth shared her own struggles with grief, describing Doherty as “one of the strongest people I have ever known.” Garth acknowledged the pressures they faced in the public eye but emphasized the genuine respect and admiration that defined their relationship.
Ziering, who portrayed Steve Sanders, took a moment to reflect on his relationship with Doherty after her passing. In a moving tribute posted on Instagram, he wrote, “I miss Shannen. We clashed now and then in the early years of 90210—two strong personalities will do that—but we always had respect.”
He concluded his tribute with a heartfelt message: “So, my dear Shannen—I think of you often. Your grit. Your fire. Your kind heart that so few really got to see. I still carry all of it with me. Rest easy, Shan.”
As the *Beverly Hills, 90210* family mourns the loss of their friend, the tributes serve as a testament to Doherty’s impact on those who knew her, both on and off screen. Her legacy will continue to resonate within the hearts of her friends, family, and fans around the world.
