Rose McGowan on Shannen Doherty’s Death: ‘Can’t Stop Crying’

Rose McGowan is mourning the loss of her fellow Charmed star Shannen Doherty, who passed away over the weekend after a long battle with cancer. McGowan, 50, and Doherty, 53, both portrayed Halliwell sisters on Charmed. Despite not co-starring on the show, McGowan shared their profound friendship in a heartfelt Instagram tribute.

“Shannen Doherty had the heart of a lion. Passion for craft is often mislabeled as trouble. Shannen was passion,” McGowan wrote. “I met her in the 90s and was awed. Getting to really know her later in life was a beautiful gift. This woman fought to live.”

McGowan continued, “Shannen knew how to be a star because she was one since childhood. Her work ethic was inspiring to the end. Shannen’s great love for directing, for acting, Holly [Marie Combs], her friends, her parents, dog and her beloved fans was legendary. Our lives had been intertwined in a unique way.”

Doherty and McGowan first crossed paths when the Beverly Hills, 90210 star was released before Charmed‘s fourth season amid an alleged conflict with co-star Alyssa Milano, 51. Milano has denied being the reason for Doherty’s departure, and McGowan joined the show as the Halliwell sister’s half-sister, Paige Matthews.

“We laughed at dark forces who wanted us to hate each other; instead, we chose love and respect,” McGowan concluded. “A soft-hearted badass as there ever was. A force of energy that will live forever in hearts. May angels and God carry her to the holy kingdom where she is healthy, young, and wild forever. Rest now warrior, we will never forget you, dear sister.”

Later, in response to Jawbreaker co-star Julie Benz calling Doherty’s death “heartbreaking” on Instagram, McGowan replied, “I can’t stop crying. A world without Shannen Doherty is inconceivable.”

Doherty passed away on Saturday, July 13, after a prolonged struggle with cancer, her publicist announced the next day. “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,” publicist Leslie Sloane stated on Sunday. “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.”

Following Doherty’s passing, Milano released a statement to Entertainment Weekly offering her condolences. “It’s no secret that Shannen and I had a complicated relationship, but at its core was someone I deeply respected and was in awe of,” said Milano. “She was a talented actress, beloved by many, and the world is less without her. My condolences to all who loved her.”