Shannen Doherty’s Shocking Divorce Decision Before Passing

Beloved actress Shannen Doherty passed away on Saturday, July 13, after a prolonged battle with breast cancer. Just one day before her death, Doherty finalized her divorce from her ex-husband, Kurt Iswarienko, marking the end of their 11-year marriage.

Legal documents obtained by People confirmed the divorce. “The parties have entered into a written agreement regarding their property and their marriage or domestic partnership rights, including support, the original of which is being or has been submitted to the court,” the documents read. Both Doherty and Iswarienko signed the document, with the photographer and film producer’s signature dated the same day Doherty died.

The couple’s relationship began in 2008, and they tied the knot in October 2011. However, trouble surfaced in 2023, leading to their separation in January. Doherty officially filed for divorce in April of that year.

Doherty’s death at age 53 followed a lengthy struggle with breast cancer. Initially diagnosed in 2015, she experienced a period of remission before the cancer returned in 2020 and progressed to stage 4. Her publicist, Leslie Sloane, shared the heart-wrenching news of her passing on Sunday, July 14.

“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,” Sloane stated.

“She was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, surrounded by her loved ones and her dog, Bowie, in her final moments. The family asks for privacy at this time to grieve in peace,” Sloane added.

In the months leading up to her death, Doherty expressed her hope that her battle with cancer would serve as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. She shared her thoughts with Entertainment Tonight, emphasizing the need for people not to be judged or sidelined because of their illness.

“I just hope that any industry — whether it be the entertainment industry, whether it be banks, whether it be where people are getting jobs — not look at people with stage 4 cancer, with whatever kind of cancer it is, and count them out and say, ‘Well, they’re gonna get too tired,’ or ‘They’re not gonna remember this,’ or ‘They’re gonna make mistakes,’” Doherty said.

Many friends and former coworkers paid tribute to Doherty, recognizing her significant contributions to television, particularly for her roles in “Beverly Hills 90210” and “Charmed.”

Jennie Garth, Doherty’s co-star from the “90210” series, honored her memory by posting two throwback photos on Instagram accompanied by a heartfelt message.

“I am still processing my tremendous grief over the loss of my long-time friend Shannen, the woman I have often described as one of the strongest people I have ever known,” Garth wrote. “Our connection was real and honest. We were so often pitted against each other but none of that reflected the truth of our real relationship which was one built on mutual respect and admiration. She was courageous, passionate, determined and very loving and generous. I will miss her and will always honor her deeply in my heart and in my memories. My heart breaks for her family and Bowie and all the people who loved her.”

Tori Spelling, another “90210” alum, shared her grief on Instagram. She posted a selfie on her Instagram Story on Sunday, July 14, with several heartbreak emojis, adding, “I don’t have outward words yet, but WE knew and that’s what matters.”

Source: Clutchpoints, People