A Gen X Icon Who Battled Relentlessly for Life

Shannen Doherty, known for her roles in “Beverly Hills, 90210,” “Heathers,” and “Charmed,” was a remarkable actor who captivated audiences immediately. Her striking appearance, with black hair and green eyes, and her distinct line delivery set her apart. Often appearing fierce on screen, Doherty’s intense presence made it easy to believe she might actually be pissed.

Generation X mourned an icon this weekend as Doherty passed away at 53. She is the second “Beverly Hills, 90210” cast member to die, following Luke Perry’s death in 2019 at age 52. Many loyal listeners of Doherty’s podcast “Let’s Be Clear” are feeling particularly bereft. I was one of those listeners, drawn not only by professional admiration but also by a personal connection, having discussed cancer with her during my own struggle with ovarian cancer.

In an emotional episode of “Let’s Be Clear” on June 23, just three weeks ago, Doherty spoke about starting a new chemo drug. She expressed fear but also hope due to new treatment protocols. “For the first time in a couple of months, probably, I feel hopeful,” she said, despite her tears. Her candor and resilience made the news of her death particularly shocking.

Doherty’s breast cancer, which had recurred in early winter 2019 as metastatic Stage 4 cancer, was serious. She even underwent brain surgery last year to remove lesions. Despite these dire circumstances, she was pushing forward in her career. The news of her joining the “Charmed” rewatch podcast with her former castmates was announced mere weeks ago.

Questions about Doherty’s cancer treatment are insignificant in the grand scheme of her life. She simply didn’t expect to die. Doherty leaves a substantial legacy. Her family moved to Los Angeles from Memphis when she was seven, and she began auditioning soon after. Her first significant role came at age 11 in the final season of “Little House on the Prairie.”

In 1988’s “Heathers,” which later achieved cult status, Doherty played Heather Duke. Her portrayal included delivering iconic lines with her trademark smirk. “Beverly Hills, 90210,” however, propelled her into stardom. The show, which premiered in 1990, revolved around her character Brenda and her twin Brandon, played by Jason Priestley, navigating life in affluent Beverly Hills. The series captivated teenagers and young adults, turning the cast into superstars.

Doherty’s career and personal life became tabloid fodder, with the media often portraying her as a notorious figure. By the time I interviewed her for the Los Angeles Times in 2008, she was preparing for a guest role on the “90210” reboot. Despite her initial hesitation, she opened up about her father’s health issues, her brief marriage to Rick Salomon, and her turbulent early fame.

After leaving “Charmed” in 2001 under contentious circumstances, Doherty had receded from the public eye. In our conversation, she revealed personal details and spoke about her struggles with an evident sense of regret but without defensiveness. Our interaction hinted at a desire to set the record straight about many aspects of her life.

Following her breast cancer diagnosis in 2015, Doherty documented her treatment journey on Instagram. When she announced her remission in 2017, I was undergoing my own cancer treatments. She offered support and even suggested connecting me with her doctors, a kind gesture that spoke volumes about her character.

I reconnected with her in 2021 for Variety’s “Power of Women” issue. Remembering my illness, we discussed the indescribable experience of cancer and chemotherapy. Despite her ongoing battle with Stage 4 cancer, she remained active in her career, participating in multiple projects and directing a breast cancer PSA.

Through her podcast “Let’s Be Clear,” Doherty continued to impact lives by sharing her journey and interviews with friends and specialists. Her guests ranged from doctors to actors like Sarah Michelle Gellar and Katherine Heigl, often addressing personal and professional challenges.

It’s difficult to accept that Shannen Doherty is no longer with us. Her unique presence and strength made the world a more exciting place. The loss of such an indomitable spirit leaves a void that feels impossible to fill.

Source: Particle News, Variety