Actress Shannen Doherty has died at the age of 53, following a courageous battle with cancer. The news was confirmed by her longtime publicist, Leslie Sloane, in a statement to PEOPLE on July 14, 2024. Doherty passed away on July 13, surrounded by loved ones and her beloved dog, Bowie.
Doherty was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. After achieving remission in early 2017, her condition deteriorated, leading to a Stage 4 diagnosis in 2020. In a November 2023 interview with PEOPLE, she expressed her determination to continue living life to the fullest despite her illness. “I’m not done with living. I’m not done with loving,” she stated, emphasizing her desire to contribute positively to the world.
In recent updates, Doherty revealed that her cancer had metastasized to her brain, prompting surgery to remove a tumor she humorously named “Bob.” She described the fear surrounding the procedure as overwhelming, but her resolve to continue working remained strong.
Throughout her career, Doherty rose to fame as Brenda Walsh on the iconic television series Beverly Hills, 90210, which debuted in 1990. She later starred as Prue Halliwell in Charmed and participated in reality television, including Dancing with the Stars. Her last appearance on screen was in the Beverly Hills, 90210 reboot, where she paid tribute to her late co-star Luke Perry, who passed away in 2019.
Doherty’s openness about her cancer journey inspired many, as she highlighted the importance of living fully and embracing life’s moments. Her fellow actors, including Brian Austin Green, praised her strength and positivity during her battle.
In her final interviews, Doherty reflected on the blessings of life and the importance of gratitude. “My greatest memory is yet to come,” she shared, illustrating her hopeful outlook despite her circumstances. The family requests privacy as they grieve the loss of a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.