‘Charmed’ & ‘Beverly Hills 90210’ Star Shannen Doherty, 53, Dies: Tragic Details
Shannen Doherty | Source: Getty Images
Shannen Doherty, beloved actress and television icon, has died at the age of 53 after a long battle with cancer, her publicist confirmed.
“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 Leslie Sloane, Doherty’s longtime publicist.
“The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace,” Sloane continued in her statement.
The star, best known for her role in Beverly Hills 90210, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 and has been open about her health struggles over the years.
Doherty shared how her dog Bowie, named after the late David Bowie, had an uncanny intuition about her health issues before she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Bowie would obsessively sniff her right side, where the cancer was later discovered, signaling an early warning that something was amiss.
After her diagnosis and through her treatments, including surgery and chemotherapy, Bowie’s behavior shifted to become even more protective. Doherty described her dog’s presence as “crazy protective,” making it difficult for anyone to get close to her, a testament to the deep bond they share.
Doherty’s courage and transparency about her diagnosis inspired many of her fans and fellow cancer fighters. Her passing marks a significant loss in the entertainment community. She will be remembered not only for her roles on screen but also for her resilience and spirit in the face of adversity.