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Tori Spelling has opened up about the last conversation she had with Shannen Doherty before her death earlier this month.
Doherty died aged 53 on 13 July, with her publicist Leslie Sloane confirming that the star had “lost her battle with cancer after many years battling the disease”.
“The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie,” Sloane added in a statement shared with People“The family asks for privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace.”
On Tuesday, July 23, Spelling opened up about how she was handling the death of her ex Beverly Hills, 90210 co-star during an episode of the 90210MG podcast
“I’ve had a lot of deaths in my life and I don’t believe in regrets, but I do have a lot of regrets about not having that time to have a second chance to move past things and look at all the good things and really talk about it and have that last conversation,” Spelling said.
“I feel like she and I had that,” the actress continued. “I’m super grateful for that.”
Podcast co-host Jennie Garth chimed in, mentioning that she didn't have the same opportunity as Spelling and “didn't really get to sit down and have [a] “A sincere conversation.”
“I wish I had had that opportunity,” Garth said, adding that she was “very happy” Spelling was able to get that chance.
Doherty, who was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, went into remission in 2017 but announced her cancer had returned in 2020 and was stage four. In 2023 she revealed the cancer had spread to her brain.
Elsewhere on the podcast, Spelling admitted that people were optimistic despite Doherty's previous health issues and “believed she was the one to make it.”
“She fought very hard and was a true warrior. And she has proven throughout her life and career… that she can overcome anything.”
“Even though we know the answer is very evil and takes away everyone we love, she had a lot of hope,” Spelling continued.
Shortly after Doherty's death, both Spelling and Garth posted tributes on their Instagram accounts. Spelling's post featured mostly photos of the two when they were younger, with a lengthy caption detailing how much he meant to her.
“Fuck them… is what Shan would say if I told her I felt pressured to summarise on social media a 36-year relationship and the pain I feel over a fire that was extinguished too soon,” the caption began.
Spelling’s caption continued: “She was a rebel in an era when most women weren’t comfortable being strong. She never tried, she just was. She embodied sensuality, strength, courage, empathy, and topped it all off with wicked humor! Her sardonic humor was one of my favorites. And no one made a fried pie like Shan!”
“Shan… I will continue to carry the torch. Take my power! And I will continue to be a rebel for you. I will love you with all my heart. Always,” the text concluded.
