Shannen also humorously mentioned she only wanted three attendees during her funeral: Chris, her mother, and her dog Bowie. She explained that this list came to mind when she faced brain surgery in January, fearing she might not survive. She said she didn’t want her funeral to be a somber affair but a celebration of love, a joyful gathering akin to a party.
Shannen Doherty and Chris Cortazzo on February 23, 2015, in Paris, France. | Source: Getty Images
The star, best known for her role in “Beverly Hills 90210,” was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. Since then, she has been open about her health struggles. She shared how her dog Bowie, named after the late David Bowie, had an uncanny intuition about her health issues. This was before she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
The Tennessee native recalled her dog obsessively sniffing her right side. It was the same side where the cancer was later discovered, signaling an early warning that something was amiss.
After her diagnosis and through her treatments, including surgery and chemotherapy, Bowie’s behavior shifted to become even more protective. Shannen described her dog’s presence as “crazy protective,” making it difficult for anyone to get close to her. This showcased the deep bond they shared.
Shannen’s resilient spirit was a gift from her mother, Rosa. In a heartfelt November 2023 interview, the “Beverly Hills 90210” star revealed how her mom was diagnosed with a brain aneurysm when Shannen was just eight years old, infusing in her a fierce spirit.
Shannen Doherty at Fox Studios on August 7, 2019, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Reflecting on her upbringing, Shannen shared that her mother was a woman of determination. This quality enabled her to learn the importance of perseverance from a very young age.
At the time, Shannen recalled her mother’s words, emphasizing that giving up was never an option. She described herself as always having been a fighter, attributing her strengths to the way she was raised.
Throughout her own health challenges, Shannen leaned heavily on her loved ones for support. Her mom, Rosa was a constant source of inspiration and guidance. She expressed deep gratitude for her mother’s influence, admitting that she considered her in every decision she made.
Shannen also mentioned the importance of her brother, his children, and her pets in her life. This highlighted the strong bonds that kept her grounded and motivated.
In an April episode of her podcast, Shannen shared that her main focus was her mother amidst her ongoing health struggles. The late actress expressed her concern for Rosa, noting that it would be incredibly difficult for her.
Shannen then emphasized her desire to avoid burdening her mother with unnecessary responsibilities, including dealing with multiple storage units filled with furniture.
Shannen Doherty and her mother Rosa Doherty are seen strolling in the ‘Le Marais’ quarter on March 13, 2014, in Paris, France. | Source: Getty Images
As such, Shannen revealed she had started sorting through her belongings and had even given up her dream of owning a property in Tennessee. She admitted that letting go of this dream was a deeply emotional and challenging process. She felt like she was abandoning the vision of building a property with a house for herself and her mother.
Shannen Doherty at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts on September 6, 2019, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Despite the challenges, Shannen’s courage and transparency inspired her fans and fellow cancer fighters. Her legacy extends beyond her memorable roles on screen. She leaves behind a testament to resilience, love, and the importance of cherishing moments with those who matter most.
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