Shannen Doherty, ‘Beverly Hills 90210’ and ‘Charmed’ Star, Dies at 53

After being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, Shannen Doherty, who was well-known for her performances on the immensely successful programs “Beverly Hills, 90210” and the witchcraft fantasy “Charmed,” passed away. 53 was her age.

Publicist Leslie Sloane issued a statement on behalf of actress Shannen Doherty, saying, “It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress, Shannen Doherty.” After battling illness for many years, she lost her struggle on Saturday, July 13. With her dog, Bowie, at her side, the loving daughter, sister, aunt, and friend was surrounded by those she loved. In order for the family to grieve in peace, they kindly request privacy at this time.

In 1990, Doherty became well-known as the youthful brunette Brenda Walsh on the Fox sitcom “Beverly Hills, 90210.” The Walshes, who had recently moved from Minnesota to Beverly Hills with her twin brother Brandon (Jason Priestly), were the quintessential out-of-place family, always in awe of the antics of the L.A. rich kids.

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The storyline in the first season where Brenda contemplates losing her virginity caused controversy because of the romance between Brenda and Dylan, played by Luke Perry. It was also widely reported when Dylan and Jennie Garth’s character Kelly broke up, and the show was hailed for being the first to tackle sensitive subjects like racism and drug misuse.

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The program was a huge smash, and along with its popularity, the cast—including the teenage Doherty—came under intense scrutiny and rumors. Even though Kelly, played by Garth, was first seen as the less likeable character on the program, Brenda quickly gained popularity and became the cast member that everyone loved to despise. The media referred to her as a diva, and there was even a newsletter published before the internet called “I Hate Brenda.” Before departing the show at the conclusion of season four, Doherty made 111 appearances. There were rumors that she had issues with other cast members, especially Garth.

On “Beverly Hills 90210,” Jason Priestley, left, Shannen Doherty, Jennie Garth, and Ian Ziering.

Everyone had matured by the time the program was revived twice more, and Doherty reappeared as Brenda in the 2008 revival of “90210” and the 2019 reincarnation of “BH90210.”

Following her turbulent exit from “Beverly Hills, 90210,” Doherty established herself in the supernatural thriller “Charmed,” which centers on three sisters who come to terms with their supernatural identity and realize they must band together to battle evil.She costarred with Alyssa Milano and Holly Marie Combs as Prue Halliwell, the eldest of the three sisters. She helmed three episodes of the show in 2000 and 2001: “Be Careful What You Witch For,” “The Good, The Bad, and The Cursed,” and “All Hell Breaks Loose,” which was her final appearance. When she departed the show at the conclusion of the third season, her role was eliminated.

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Doherty was born in Memphis, Tennessee, but she and her family relocated to Los Angeles when she was young. At the age of ten, she landed a role on the television show “Father Murphy.” At the age of eleven, Michael Landon cast her as Jenny Wilder in “Little House on the Prairie” after noticing her in the series.

After that, Doherty costarred with Wilfred Brimley in a recurrent role on the family series “Our House.”

She starred in several feature films, including the teen classic “Heathers,” “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” “Mallrats” directed by Kevin Smith, and “Jay and Silent Bob Strikes Back.”

She made appearances in a number of TV movies in addition to “North Shore” and “Riverdale,” among other shows.

The lead actor in “Beverly Hills 90201” was Shannen Doherty.©Courtesy/Aaron Spelling Prods

She produced the reality show “Breaking Up With Shannen Doherty” in 2006, in which she assisted individuals in dangerous relationships who wished to end their relationship but were unable to do so on their own. She then made an appearance in “Off the Map With Shannen and Holly,” another reality show.

Doherty was given a breast cancer diagnosis in February 2015, and she declared herself to be in remission in 2017. However, the cancer has spread and come back by 2019. She kept on working, landing parts in TV films such as “List of a Lifetime” and “Dying to Belong.” In addition, Doherty was the host of the well-liked podcast “Let’s Be Clear With Shannen Doherty,” where she openly talked about her experiences with breast cancer and her career.

She claimed to have been having radiation treatment in June 2023 for cancer that had progressed to her brain.

She temporarily wed poker player Rick Salomon and Ashley Hamilton, the son of George Hamilton. In 2011, she wed photographer Kurt Iswarienko. In 2023, they filed for divorce.

Greedy Heirs Tried to Earn Favor with Grandpa to Inherit More, Their Jaws Dropped When the Lawyer Read the Will

“You always have room for one more,” his late wife would say with a gentle smile. Mr. Lewis believed in giving back and creating a life of meaning through acts of kindness.

But in his later years, the family that had once filled his home with joy grew distant. His children rarely visited, except when they needed something.

“Dad, it’s tough out there. Just need a little help,” his eldest son, Richard, would say, barely making eye contact before asking for money.

Olivia, his daughter, was no different. “Dad, the kids’ school fees are outrageous. Could you—” she’d start, and before long, he’d be reaching for his checkbook.

Even his grandchildren only came around during holidays, eyeing his home and wealth more than they ever looked at him.

When Mr. Lewis received his terminal diagnosis, he called his family to share the news. Within hours, they flocked to his mansion, putting on their best performances as the “devoted” children and grandchildren.

“We’re here for you now, Dad,” Richard said, patting his father on the shoulder with forced affection.

“We’ve got you, Grandpa,” echoed his teenage granddaughter, Willow, her eyes barely leaving her phone as she spoke.

For weeks, they hovered around him, offering tea they hadn’t brewed themselves and empty words they didn’t mean. Mr. Lewis saw through it all. They weren’t there out of love—they were there for the money. He was no fool, and though his heart ached, he knew exactly what was happening.

When Mr. Lewis finally passed away peacefully in his sleep, the family immediately shifted their focus to the inheritance. The day of the will reading, they packed into the lawyer’s office, eager to claim their share.

“I bet Dad left the most to me,” Olivia whispered smugly.

“Please,” Richard scoffed. “I’m the one with the business sense.”

But the bickering ceased when Mr. Alaric, the family lawyer, entered the room—accompanied by a quiet, 13-year-old girl none of them recognized.

“Who’s the kid?” Richard blurted out, his confidence fading.

“This,” Mr. Alaric announced, “is Harper. She’s here for the reading of the will.”

Confusion rippled through the room as the family exchanged puzzled looks. The lawyer’s next words left them speechless.

“Harper is the sole heir to Mr. Lewis’ entire estate.”

The room erupted into chaos. “What are you talking about?!” Richard shouted. “She’s just a kid! Dad would never do that.”

Olivia’s voice rose in disbelief. “This is absurd! We’re his family—his blood!”

Mr. Alaric raised his hand for silence. “I know this is a shock, but Mr. Lewis left a letter explaining his decision. Allow me to read it.”

The room fell silent, thick with tension, as the lawyer began.

Dear Family, the letter began, I know you’re probably confused, maybe even angry. But please hear me out. Over the past few years, Harper has been my greatest source of joy. She’s the little girl who lived next door. Long before any of you noticed, Harper saw that I wasn’t well. She’d see me struggling to get the mail or sitting alone on the porch.

Harper shifted uncomfortably as all eyes turned toward her, but she stayed quiet, her hands clasped.

Harper visited me every day. Not for money, not for favors. She came to share stories, play cards, or just sit with me. She made me feel less alone. In the years when I needed family the most, Harper was there.

Richard rolled his eyes. “We were busy living our lives, Dad. You should’ve told us you were lonely.”

Ignoring the interruption, Mr. Alaric continued reading.

What you don’t know is that Harper has her own battles to fight. A few months ago, she was diagnosed with a terminal illness—one no child should ever have to face. Despite her struggles, she’s remained a light in my life. She deserves the chance to live her dreams, no matter how short her time may be.

A stunned silence fell over the room as Mr. Lewis’ children absorbed the revelation. Even Olivia, who had been fuming moments earlier, sat quietly, tears welling in her eyes.

By the time you hear this, I’ll be gone. Harper may only have a year or two left, but I’ve made sure she has everything she needs to live those years to the fullest. Instead of fighting over my money, I hope you’ll support her in the way she supported me. Harper showed me love when none of you did. Remember: love is the greatest inheritance.

Mr. Alaric folded the letter, leaving the room heavy with the weight of Mr. Lewis’ words.

Harper stepped forward, her voice small but steady. “Mr. Lewis was my friend. I never wanted his money, just his stories and time.”

Richard cleared his throat, ashamed. “Harper, I’m sorry. We didn’t know…”

“I’m going to use the money to travel with my parents, eat ice cream for breakfast, and live as much as I can,” Harper said. “When I’m gone, the rest will go to other kids who are fighting like me.”

Tears streamed down Olivia’s face. “You’re so brave, Harper. I hope you get to do everything you dream of.”

Over the following months, Harper did just that. She visited the Eiffel Tower, dipped her toes in the ocean, and filled her days with laughter and love. When her time came, she passed away peacefully, surrounded by those she loved.

True to her wishes, the remainder of Mr. Lewis’ fortune was donated to charities that supported children with terminal illnesses, funding research and helping families in need.

Harper’s legacy became a symbol of the power of kindness and the impact of genuine connection. And for Mr. Lewis’ family, the lesson was clear: wealth isn’t measured by money, but by love. Harper had taught them all the true value of life.

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