Shannen Doherty was an accomplished actress, producer, director, and author, with a net worth of $5 million at the time of her death. She was best known for her iconic roles in “Heathers” (1988), “Beverly Hills, 90210” (1990–1994), and “Charmed” (1998–2001). Despite facing numerous personal and health challenges, Doherty’s career was marked by significant achievements and contributions to the entertainment industry. Sadly, she passed away on July 13, 2024, at the age of 53.
What Were Her Earnings from Iconic Shows?
Doherty’s salary varied throughout her career. During the early days of “Beverly Hills, 90210,” she earned $17,500 per episode. For her role in “Charmed,” she made $75,000 per episode. When she joined the 2008 reboot of “90210,” her earnings ranged between $40,000 and $50,000 per episode.
What About Her Real Estate Investments?
In 2004, Doherty purchased a 3,410-square-foot home in Malibu for $2.56 million. The house, built in 1976, features five bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, ocean views, a pool, and a spa. She listed the property for sale in May 2008 for $4.4 million, reflecting her keen interest in real estate investments.
How Did Shannen Doherty Start Her Career?
Early Life
Shannen Maria Doherty was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 12, 1971. Raised in a Southern Baptist family, she was the daughter of Rosa, a beauty parlor operator, and Tom, a mortgage consultant. Doherty’s heritage includes Irish, English, and Scottish ancestry, which enriched her cultural background.
Early Career
Doherty began acting as a child. In 1982, she had guest roles on “Voyagers!” and “Father Murphy,” created and produced by Michael Landon. That same year, she was cast as Jenny Wilder on “Little House on the Prairie,” appearing in almost all episodes of the final season. Her early career also included voice-over work for the animated movie “The Secret of NIMH” and a starring role in the teen comedy film “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” (1985).
What Were Her Breakthrough Roles?
Heathers and Beverly Hills, 90210
Doherty’s first major film role was as Heather Duke in “Heathers” (1988). Her breakout role came in 1990 when she starred as Brenda Walsh in “Beverly Hills, 90210.” Her portrayal earned her Young Artist Award nominations in 1991 and 1992. Although she left the show in 1994, her role as Brenda Walsh remained iconic, and she reprised it for the six-episode sequel “BH 90210” in 2019.
Charmed and Other Projects
After leaving “90210,” Doherty starred in several made-for-TV movies and had a notable role in Kevin Smith’s film “Mallrats” (1995). In 1998, she was cast as Prue Halliwell in “Charmed,” a role that further cemented her status as a TV star. Despite leaving the show in 2001, her performance earned her Saturn Award nominations in 1999 and 2000.
Doherty’s career continued with roles in “Scare Tactics,” “North Shore,” and her own reality show, “Breaking Up with Shannen Doherty.” In 2008, she returned to the “90210” franchise as a recurring guest star.
What Was Shannen’s Personal Life Like?
Relationships and Marriages
Shannen Doherty’s personal life was often in the spotlight. She was briefly engaged to Max Factor heir Dean Jay Factor in 1993, who filed a restraining order against her. She married Ashley Hamilton in 1993, but they divorced in 1994. In 2002, she married Rick Salomon, but the marriage was annulled after nine months. Doherty married photographer Kurt Iswarienko on October 15, 2011, in Malibu, California.
Public Image and Feuds
Doherty had a reputation as Hollywood’s “bad girl” in the 90s, known for her heavy partying and on-set disputes. Her feuds with co-stars Jennie Garth on “90210” and Alyssa Milano on “Charmed” were well-publicized. Despite these challenges, Doherty continued to work and maintain a presence in the industry.
How Did She Battle Health Issues?
Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
In March 2015, Doherty was diagnosed with breast cancer that had spread to her lymph nodes. She underwent anti-estrogen treatment, a mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. By April 2017, her cancer was in remission. However, in February 2020, she revealed that her cancer had returned and progressed to stage four. In June 2023, she announced that the cancer had metastasized to her brain.
Final Years and Legacy
Despite her battle with cancer, Doherty remained a resilient figure, advocating for cancer awareness and sharing her journey with the public. She passed away peacefully on July 13, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of strength and perseverance.
Conclusion
Shannen Doherty’s life was marked by both triumphs and challenges. Her contributions to television and film, coupled with her openness about personal struggles, made her a beloved and influential figure. Her legacy continues to inspire fans and fellow actors alike, demonstrating the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.