Shannen Doherty got vulnerable and candid in a wide-ranging new conversation about death, fear and funeral planning.
The “Beverly Hills, 90210” star invited her best friend Chris Cortazzo, whom she described as her “security blanket,” to join her on the “Let's Be Clear” podcast to delve into how to face death head-on and with humor, despite his fears.
Doherty was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. She had a mastectomy, underwent chemotherapy and radiation and was in remission in 2017. But in February 2020, the “Charmed” actor revealed that the disease had returned and had metastasized, spreading to his spine. Last summer, he shared that the cancer had spread to his brain, requiring surgery and more radiation treatment, and in November, Doherty revealed that the disease had spread to his bones.
While the actress has been candid about her nearly decade-long battle with cancer, sharing glimpses of the reality of the disease through interviews, talk shows and social media, she was especially forthcoming when speaking with Cortazzo. She revealed that although she has been praised for her strength in dealing with her illness, there are times when she locks herself in the closet and cries, and that she is afraid of the dying process.
“I 100% have those moments where I feel everything and wish for something different. …The most important thing is that I don't want to die too soon because I have a lot to achieve. So that weighs heavily on my brain: I haven't raised enough money for cancer.”
Doherty also said that when he was about to undergo brain surgery, he revised his will and named Cortazzo as executor of his trust, and gave serious thought to what he envisioned for his funeral when that day came. “It made me start thinking about who would show up [my funeral]. And there are a lot of people who I think would show up, but I don't want there.
“Because the reasons for showing up are not necessarily the best reasons, as if they don't really as “I,” he continued, noting that he abhors “falsehood.”
“They have their reasons and it's good for them. But they don't really like me enough to show up at my funeral, but they will because it's politically correct and they don't want to look bad. And that's why I want to take that pressure off of them. And I want my funeral to be like a celebration of love.”
As for the list of guests who made the cut and those who didn't, Doherty said the list of people he wants there is the best. “I can't give you a list of who I don't want because it's too long.”
“I don't mind my fans showing up,” he added. “Those are the people who have supported me my entire life and career. And I love them.”
While Doherty and Cortazzo acknowledged that their conversation could be perceived as morbid or strange, Doherty said he finds it reassuring and funny. “I like to be funny in certain situations, especially when they're scary.”
