Shannen Doherty was spending time with a loved one the last time she was photographed in public before her death.
The late Beverly Hills 90210 star, who died on July 13 at age 53, was photographed a month earlier on June 16, walking with her longtime friend Chris Cortazzo at Kristy’s Malibu.
The real estate agent had his arm around the actress’ shoulder while Doherty carried a bag as they walked together. Doherty was dressed casually in jeans, a gray top, and a black messenger hat. Their closeness was evident in the affectionate way they interacted during their outing.
Following the news of her death, Cortazzo shared an emotional tribute to the late star, writing: “My beloved friend and heart” alongside a collage of photos of the pair over the years.
“What memories and laughter we have shared through this journey,” he wrote on Instagram. “You were my protector, my best friend and my divine wife. My heart is shattered. I love you forever my sweet dear friend.” He signed the note, “Your Christopher.”
In November 2023, Doherty opened up to People about her closeness to Cortazzo and his family, saying, “I have a best friend, a male best friend who we joke that we’re married, and his two kids and I have had massive breakthroughs and we just love each other and hang out, and I kind of view them as my children.” This deep bond was a source of comfort and joy for the actress during her difficult times.
Doherty also shared several photos with Cortazzo on social media. In a September 2023 Instagram post, she posted a selfie with Cortazzo, writing: “Dinner time @chriscortazzo.” In January, the Charmed star shared a photo of herself and Cortazzo, captioning it: “Date night and really really good lighting.”
The same month, Cortazzo appeared on Doherty’s podcast Let’s Be Clear, where they discussed the Charmed alum’s health struggles and their friendship. “Do you know the only time I saw fear in your eyes was when I was…” he began, and she finished, “Brain surgery?” referring to her June 2023 surgery after her cancer had spread to her brain.
“Yes,” he confirmed, and she added: “I did not think I was gonna be me after that surgery.” Cortazzo responded: “I know. But, seeing you and seeing your mom look at you and you looking at your mom ‘cause it was the three of us and watching you look into each other’s eyes literally broke my heart.”
He continued: “You’re so powerless as a friend cause there’s nothing you can do and you just said, ‘I love you, mommy’ and you know, we held your hand going down the hallway and then… your mom had to say goodbye and it was brutal,” as she held back tears.
It was confirmed on June 14 that Doherty died after years of living with cancer. “It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease,” Doherty’s longtime publicist Leslie Sloane shared. “The devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace,” Sloane continued.
Doherty’s legacy is marked by her impactful career, as well as her strength in the face of adversity.
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