Shannen Doherty’s first husband, Ashley Hamilton, paid tribute to the Charmed star after she lost her nearly 10-year battle with cancer.
The Oz actor, 49, expressed his deep feelings: “Shannen was not only my wife, she was my guardian angel. Even though things don’t always work out the way we hope they will, she stood by my side during some of my darkest times.”
Hamilton, who was married to Doherty from 1993 to 1994, confessed that his “love and admiration” for her remained strong long after their split.
He shared: “Watching her battle that horrific disease with such stoicism was inspiring to many, but even more so to me since I am a cancer survivor. Another painful reminder of how short life truly is. I regret I never reached out during her courageous battle, opting instead to give her grace and space.”
Speaking to the New York Post, he added: “The world lost a free-spirited soul and my heart aches for her and for all those who loved her. May she rest in peace.”
Doherty and Hamilton exchanged vows in September 1993, but their marriage ended just seven months later when she filed for divorce. The late 53-year-old television star opened up about her troubled marriage in a January episode of her “Let’s Be Clear” podcast.
In that episode, she explained that her tumultuous marriage contributed to her being fired from Season 4 of Beverly Hills, 90210. She told her co-star Jason Priestley: “There were things transpiring in that marriage that made it very hard for me to consistently be on time for work.”
Doherty acknowledged the impact her personal struggles had on her professional life, saying: “And I know that that became a very big problem for the rest of you, because as it should be, because if everybody else is on time and you’re waiting for one person, it sucks.”
Doherty’s honesty about her struggles endeared her to many fans who appreciated her transparency and resilience. Her ability to confront and share her vulnerabilities was a testament to her strength and character.
Shannen Doherty’s battle with cancer was a public and courageous fight, inspiring many who followed her journey. Her legacy as an actress and a fighter remains, and her influence on both the entertainment industry and her fans is undeniable.
As her loved ones and admirers mourn her passing, they remember not only her contributions to television and film but also her indomitable spirit.
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