Why Ian Ziering Waited to Pay Tribute to Shannen Doherty

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Ian Ziering knows that grief is complicated.

On the one-year anniversary of Shannen Doherty’s passing, a cast member from Beverly Hills, 90210 shared his tribute, explaining the reason behind his delay in acknowledging her on social media.

In his July 13 Instagram post, Ian wrote, “A year ago, when she passed away, I chose not to post anything. Some people commented on this, but here’s the truth: mourning isn’t something to be displayed publicly. It’s a deeply personal experience. Everyone should be allowed to grieve in their own way.

He openly acknowledged that he found it challenging to be with his fellow cast members during the past year, given the absence of Shannen. This difficulty was particularly pronounced as they collectively grieve the loss of Luke Perry, who passed away from a massive ischemic stroke in 2019. Ian underlined that such a loss does not diminish; instead, it alters the arrangement of feelings within one’s heart.

He expressed that he’s been missing Shannen. In the early days of 90210, we occasionally had our differences due to our strong personalities, but there was always mutual respect. I was the one with the quick wit and comic timing, while she embodied unpredictable charm, making headlines after hours, and being the girl who could turn a hotel room into chaos that the tabloids adored.

The 61-year-old quipped, “Stop laughing, Shan. You know it’s true.”

In 2015, the actor from “Sharknado” was informed about Shannen’s breast cancer diagnosis. By November 2023, this illness had unfortunately progressed, affecting her liver, brain, and bones.

Ian mused that the updates seemed less about ‘Shannen battling cancer’ and more like ‘cancer underestimated its opponent,’ which mirrored her spirit. Her approach was always strong, determined, and unyielding. During those years, whenever I met her, she remained Shann – fierce, humorous, brimming with life.

The Charmed alum’s resilience made her death at 53 seem unreal at first. 

In my own words, I shared that her departure took me by surprise, much like being struck by an unexpected freight train. To be honest, I had faith in her ability to perform yet another miracle.

While grieving over the loss of his old friend, Ian reminisced about their personal developments since she parted ways with Beverly Hills, 90210 in 1994.

Over time, as we grew more mature, we became less intense and learned to appreciate our individual contributions better. I’ll always remember when Jennie (Garth) and she caught me off guard at the Chippendales show in Las Vegas. We had such a hilarious time! It was one of those nights that you never forget.

You know, Shannen, my admiration for you never fades. It’s your resilience, your passion, and the compassion hidden beneath that tough exterior that continues to inspire me. I hold those qualities close to my heart even now. Sleep peacefully, Shan.

To see more stars who’ve paid tribute to Shannen, keep reading.

What words can express three decades of friendship? That’s what Buffy the Vampire Slayer wondered on Instagram, July 15. It’s painful because there was so much love involved. Thank you for your kind messages and support. I appreciate all the tales about how @theshando made a difference in your lives. Let’s honor her memory by remembering the impact she had.

The actress who portrayed Kelly Taylor on “90210” expressed her ongoing struggle with profound sadness following the demise of her long-time friend Shannen, a remarkable woman I’ve frequently characterized as one of the strongest individuals I’ve encountered. She penned this sentiment on Instagram. Despite our characters often being at odds on the show, Brenda Walsh and Shannen, our connection was authentic and sincere. We were frequently portrayed as rivals, but that did not reflect the essence of our genuine relationship, which was founded upon mutual respect and admiration for each other.

Shannen, she said, “was courageous, passionate, determined and very loving and generous.”

Jennie went on to say, “I’ll carry a deep affection for her in my heart and remember her fondly. My heart goes out to her family, Bowie, and everyone who knew and cherished her.

Tori posted a selfie with Shannen on Instagram Stories, along with some broken heart emojis, indicating they share an understanding. At this point, she hasn’t found the right words to express it, but the shared knowledge is what truly counts.

Deeply distressed to learn about the demise of my friend Shannen, I shared my feelings on Instagram. She possessed an incredible energy and I’ll dearly miss her. My thoughts and warmest sympathies are with her loved ones during these difficult times.

Shan, my dear sister, was the one I referred to in my Instagram Stories. She showed me unwavering love through thick and thin. At this moment, I feel a loss that I struggle to comprehend. But I want her to know, she gave me the priceless gift of her presence. Thank you, Shan.

On Instagram, the ex-president of SAG-AFTRA wrote, ‘So young, so sad.’ Rest in peace, Shannon. I believe Luke is waiting with open arms to welcome you in heaven.

The former actress-turned-therapist, known for portraying Cindy Walsh, the mother of Shannen and Jason Priestley’s twin characters Brenda and Brandon, expressed her shock and sadness on Instagram upon hearing about the death of her onscreen daughter.

She’s been through quite the trip, she noted. Unfortunately, her time was cut short. Yet, throughout it all, she remained authentic and demonstrated bravery and resilience while confronting her own mortality. May she find eternal tranquility.

In simpler terms, she expressed that while Shannen and I had a challenging friendship, there was someone I held in high esteem and admired deeply. She talked about this in an interview with Entertainment Weekly. Shannen was a gifted actress, adored by many, and her absence is felt strongly. My sympathies go out to everyone who cherished her.

In response to the last Instagram post of the actress who took over from Shannen Doherty on Charmed in 2001, she expressed her feelings as, “A heart like that of a true lion,” indicating strength and bravery. She further added, “You were such a warrior. Now, your father is embracing his beloved girl in heaven.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d express it like this: “I continue to send heartfelt love to your beloved mother, cherished pet, and everyone who holds you dearly. A warm embrace also goes out to dear Holly, or as we know her, Marie Combs. My admiration extends to all your devoted fans, whom I know you reciprocated that affection towards. If anyone dared to face death and courageously declined, it was none other than the fearless Shannen. In respect and awe, I bow my head to this brave soul. Love endures forever.

The actor, known for his role as Leo Wyatt on Charmed, expressed on Instagram that I’ve been shown the essence of strength by him. He instilled in me courage and the importance of living with intention. He helped me recognize my worth and stand firm in my resolve.

“Forever loved!” he added. “Truly heartbroken.”

I’m deeply saddened by Shannen Doherty’s death, as I shared on my Instagram Stories last July 14th. When I learned about my own breast cancer diagnosis, I was reminded of how courageously she shared her journey with the world. Her openness moved me to reach out to her, and we quickly formed a friendship that, at times, I found hard to believe since watching her on ‘Newsroom’ was such a significant part of my childhood when I was 10 years old.

She expressed that our connection grew from facing similar challenges and a common goal of assisting other women. Reflecting on her last message to me only a few months back, she inquired about my well-being and asked if there was anything she could do for me… as always, Shannen was extending her help, even when she was battling this terrible illness in its final stages.

Olivia ended her statement with a touching tribute to her deceased friend. “Cancer is truly terrifying, but Shannen confronted it with such grace, courage, and elegance,” she shared. “I’m sending all my affection to her mother who was her dearest friend, hero, and steadfast supporter throughout their journey together. May you soar high, dear friend.

In response to Shannen’s last Instagram post, the actress (fighting multiple sclerosis) expressed gratitude and said, “Thanks for being here. You’ve shown us resilience. A true rebel spirit.

I deeply admire you,” expressing my feelings in a comment. “May you soar to even greater heights, cherished gentle soul. This is tough. Your warmth, bravery, and compassion will leave an indelible void.

The Academy Award-winning individual expressed on Instagram that your courage in sharing your Cancer experience had a profound impact on others, leaving them with something deeply felt. May you find peace. My best wishes to your dear ones.

In simpler terms, the actor who played Rick on Beverly Hills, 90210, and had a brief romance with Brenda (Shannen’s character), posted on platform X, “Rest In Peace Shannen,” accompanied by a weeping emoji.

The Wicked star wrote in an Instagram comment, “Fly with the angels sweet precious soul!”

In a tweet, he expressed his deep sorrow by saying, “My heart is crushed… I had the privilege of knowing Shannen Doherty during the filming of our movie ‘Fortess’ about two years ago. She radiated warmth and positive energy. Her talent was immense and she was still so young. May she find eternal peace.

He expressed on X, once known as Twitter, ‘RIP Shannen Doherty.’ I encountered her during the Full House era. She was kind and had a radiant smile. Today, I will remember not just Shannen but also the women in my life who battled cancer – my mother, my sister, Sharon, and my niece, Shannon. They were all remarkable for their strength and beauty.

In a post accompanying the news article about Shannen’s demise, the journalist expressed their sorrow by writing, “I’m truly disheartened to learn about this.

The Community actress posted on Twitter, ‘What tragic news.’ I had wished she could overcome the illness once more.

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2025-07-14 20:17