Sarah Michelle Gellar wrote a moving tribute to his longtime friend, Shannen Doherty, after his death on Saturday.
On Sunday, the Cruel intentions star took to Instagram to remember the Beverly Hills 90210 actress, with whom she had been friends for over 30 years.
“How do you find the right words to sum up 30 years of friendship? I keep reminding myself that it only hurts a little because there was so much love,” the 47-year-old actress wrote alongside a series of photos. “Thank you for all your kind words and support. I’ve loved all the messages about how important @theshando was to you. So let’s honor her.”
O Buffy the Vampire Slayer The star went on to say that people who want to honor Doherty can do so by celebrating her love for animals, especially dogs.
“More than anything, Shan loves animals, especially dogs,” she continued. “In her memory, let’s support our favorite animal charities. Whether it’s donating money, going to your local shelter and just offering cuddles and walks to the animals there, or even tagging them in the comments so others can learn about their work. I know it would make our little girl happy (and elicit that deep, throaty laugh we all loved) 💔 💔💔.”
Gellar’s photo carousel included images of her and Doherty over the years at events, at home, riding horses and outdoors.
Gellar and Doherty showed off their long friendship in 2020 when they did a joint interview with ET. At the time, Doherty spoke about the support she received from her friend, who asked questions and showed up during her diagnosis.
“The support from my family, my friends, my loved ones — I mean, my friends are my family — has been phenomenal. You know how much you’ve supported me,” Doherty told Gellar at the time.
ET confirmed that the Charmed actress died on Saturday after a long battle with cancer. She was 53 years old.
“It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty,” the actress’s longtime publicist Leslie Sloane told ET in a statement. “On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of battling the disease.”
The statement continued: “The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones, as well as her dog, Bowie. The family requests privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace.”
After the news of his death, Doherty was remembered by her friends, co-stars and fans through a series of social media posts..
Jennie Garth, who played Kelly Taylor opposite Doherty’s Brenda Walsh in 90210wrote a sweet tribute to her longtime friend.
“I am still processing my tremendous grief over the loss of my longtime friend Shannen, the woman I have always described as one of the strongest people I have ever known,” she wrote alongside a throwback photo of her and Doherty. “Our connection was real and honest. We were often pitted against each other, but none of that reflected the truth of our real relationship, which was built on mutual respect and admiration. She was courageous, passionate, determined, and so loving and generous. I will miss her and will always honor her deeply in my heart and memories. My heart breaks for her family and Bowie 💔.”
Doherty’s best friend Chris Cortazzo also wrote a touching tribute in his honor.
“My dearest friend and heart. What memories and laughter we shared during this journey,” he posted alongside a video montage. “You were my protector, my best friend and my divine wife. My heart is shattered. I love you forever, my sweet and dear friend. Yours Christopher.”
For more information on Shannen’s life and career, click below.
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