‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ Cast Lost Two Actors – What Happened to the Other Characters?

The cast of “Beverly Hills, 90210” has undergone significant changes in the 34 years since the show’s debut.
The well-known actors have experienced marriage, divorce, parenthood, the loss of loved ones, and health issues.
See what transpired with the eight stars of “Beverly Hills, 90210” following the conclusion of the renowned television series.

“Beverly Hills, 90210” was a cultural icon that shaped a generation, not merely a television program. The show, which ran from 1990 to 2000, featured a group of youngsters as they navigated life in the affluent, celebrity-studded environment of Beverly Hills.

Since it addressed such important topics as drug addiction and teenage pregnancy, the program was revolutionary and controversial in its day.

The characters from “Beverly Hills, 90210” are what have kept the show a revered part of television history. Over the years, the cast tragically lost two well-known actors. What transpired to the other cherished cast members is examined in this piece.

Shannen Doherty: The Iconic Brenda Walsh and Her Battle with Cancer

Brenda Walsh was portrayed by Shannen Doherty on “Beverly Hills, 90210.” Brenda was a major character in the program and the twin sister of Brandon Walsh. Her narrative frequently focused on her turbulent relationship with Luke Perry’s character as well as her attempt to blend in with Beverly Hills’ glitzy society.

Brenda was well-known for her tenacious nature and occasionally contentious demeanor. Brenda became one of the most memorable characters of the series because to Doherty’s portrayal of her, which struck a chord with viewers. Doherty encountered even more difficult obstacles in real life than in the television program.

After receiving her initial breast cancer diagnosis in 2015, the actress frequently updated her fan base on her struggle. Doherty received medical care, such as chemotherapy and surgery. She proved her tenacity by continuing to work in the entertainment sector.

Sadly, the actress lost her fight with cancer and died in 2024 at the age of 53. The tragic news was confirmed by her publicist, who also said that the “Beverly Hills, 90210” actress passed away surrounded by her loved ones and her dog, Bowie.

Luke Perry: The Beloved Dylan McKay and His Lasting Legacy

Luke Perry was raised in Mansfield, Ohio, but relocated to Los Angeles to pursue his acting career after graduating from high school. At sixteen, he began his television career, appearing in soap operas to gain experience.

But Perry really started to become well-known around 1990. He was chosen to play the melancholy recluse Dylan McKay in “Beverly Hills, 90210.” Dylan McKay had a multifaceted and intricate character, and Perry gave a performance that instantly elevated him to the rank of a major adolescent idol.

Before “Beverly Hills, 90210” ended in 2000, he had two runs on the show. Perry refused to be limited by his early success and went on to play a variety of parts that demonstrated his range as an actor.

Among his most notable roles was that of Archie Andrews’ father, Fred Andrews, from the popular television series “Riverdale.” However, Perry tragically passed away in March 2019 after suffering a severe stroke at the age of 52.

In a statement, his management confirmed the heartbreaking news and disclosed that Perry was accompanied by loved ones at the time of his passing. The unexpected loss of Perry startled many. But because of his unforgettable performances and the influence he had on everyone who knew him, his legacy endures.

Jennie Garth: From Kelly Taylor to Heart Health Advocate

When Jennie Garth was just 15 years old, a talent scout found her and she went on to become a celebrity. It was suggested that the teenager seek a career in acting. She so left school in her junior year and relocated to Los Angeles with her mother’s help.

Garth’s life altered irrevocably in 1990 when she was chosen to play Kelly Taylor on “Beverly Hills, 90210.” Kelly Taylor made her debut as a well-liked high school student with a problematic family situation. The character on the show immediately rose to prominence as one of the most likable and nuanced characters.

After the finale of “Beverly Hills, 90210,” Garth went on to further her career by landing a number of parts in movies and television shows. The WB network comedy “What I Like About You,” which debuted in 2002, was one of her noteworthy post-“90210” endeavors.

Garth’s life hasn’t been without difficulties, either. Her father passed away from heart illness in 2009. Following that, Garth talked candidly about her personal health issues. “I’ve been affected by heart disease practically my whole life,” Garth said.

“My father has struggled with heart disease since he was 50, and I lost him a year ago,” she said. Garth disclosed that her inspiration to talk about it came from heart problems. […] It’s a typical occurrence. Many people are affected by it without even realizing it. 

Jason Priestley: The Quintessential Brandon Walsh and Life Beyond Beverly Hills

Jason Priestley became well-known for playing “Beverly Hills, 90210″‘s Brandon Walsh. The sincere, morally pure twin brother of Doherty’s persona was Brandon Walsh.

After the conclusion of the renowned program, Priestley lived in Los Angeles for more than thirty years as an actor. But in the end, the actor took a significant turn. Together with his spouse and two kids, he relocated to Nashville, TN.

“Life is so much easier to manage here. And it’s a neat, fascinating location,” Priestley said. Even though Priestley was 2,000 miles away from Hollywood, she kept performing. He starred in “Börje—The Journey of a Legend” and costarred in the CW crime drama “Wild Cards.”

Priestley was a talented actor who achieved success in his profession. He has also branched out into producing and directing. The first episodes he directed were from “Beverly Hills, 90210.” He has since directed numerous TV episodes and motion pictures.

Ian Ziering: The Enduring Steve Sanders and His Versatile Career

Ian Ziering’s rise to fame started early; at the age of twelve, he was appearing in national commercials. But a major turning point in his career occurred in 1990. When Ziering was cast as Steve Sanders on “Beverly Hills, 90210,” he became an instant sensation.

Steve Sanders was an endearing and frequently comic figure who was well-known for his intricate relationships with other characters and his naughty activities. Following “Beverly Hills, 90210″‘s finale, Ziering went on to have a successful career. He made multiple TV appearances, such as on “CSI: NY” and “Happily Divorced.”

In addition, Ziering rose to prominence as an actor in a number of animated TV series and movies. Ziering’s part in the “Sharknado” film series was one of his most prominent post-“90210” endeavors. The popularity of “Sharknado” paved the way for several follow-ups and cemented Ziering’s reputation as a gifted actor.

Tiffani Thiessen: From Kelly Kapowski to Valerie Malone and Beyond

Stardom for Tiffani Thiessen started with her appearance on “Saved by the Bell.” The actress portrayed Kelly Kapowski, the well-liked cheerleader, in the show. But after “Saved by the Bell” concluded in 1994, Thiessen was hired to play Valerie Malone on “Beverly Hills, 90210.”

Her portrayal of Valerie gave the show a fresh level of intrigue and drama. The characters of Thiessen and Garth were sworn adversaries. But in reality, they were the best of friends. Up until 1998, Thiessen portrayed Valerie Malone. She then departed the program to work on films.

She acted in two indie films before starring in two comedy. She starred in the comedy “Hollywood Ending,” which was directed and starred by Woody Allen in 2002.

Behind the scenes, though, Thiessen’s personal life was far from perfect. Actor David Strickland, who was her boyfriend at the time, was discovered dead in a motel room in Las Vegas in 1999. This unfortunate incident marked a dark period in Thiessen’s life.

In 2001, the actress eventually fell in love once more, this time with actor Richard Ruccolo. Later that year, the couple was engaged, but Thiessen called it quits in 2003. Actor Brady Smith and Thiessen were married in 2005 and had two children together.

Thiessen pursued various artistic endeavors in addition to her professional career. Her own cookery show was hosted by her. Thiessen continued to work in show business. She accepted performing parts that exhibited her depth and variety.

Brian Austin Green: From David Silver to Battling Health Challenges

Actor Brian Austin Green became well-known for his portrayal of David Silver on “Beverly Hills, 90210.” When David was first introduced, he was a shy first-year student with dreams of becoming a DJ. Still, he changed a lot during the course of the show.

Following the series finale of “Beverly Hills, 90210” in 2000, Green pursued performance work. He was cast in a number of movies, such as “Cock & Bull Story” in 2002 and “Purgatory Flats” in 2003.

Over time, Green’s private life has also received attention. His co-star Vanessa Marcil from “Beverly Hills, 90210” was his fiancée. They welcomed a son together. Green later wed the actress Megan Fox, and the two of them had three kids.

The actor talked candidly about a really trying time in his life in 2023. He shared specifics about his four-year struggle to overcome symptoms similar to a stroke that prevented him from speaking, reading, or writing.

The abrupt and severe loss of speech marked the beginning of Green’s fight. After this first symptom, there was a weird fog in the brain and severe vertigo. The actor saw Western medical specialists on multiple occasions. Still, he was unable to arrive at a conclusive diagnosis.

This prompted Green to consult a physician specializing in Eastern and Kinesiology. With this peculiar method, Green at last experienced relief. He also started to realize how sick he was. Green’s career has been shaped by both personal and professional setbacks, which have shaped the man and actor he is today.

Tori Spelling: From Donna Martin to Real-Life Struggles

It is well known that Tori Spelling played the classic character of Donna Martin on “Beverly Hills, 90210.” The show’s audience adored Donna because of her generosity and purity. Donna was portrayed by Spelling in a way that had a lasting impact on the show and increased its appeal.

But the actress’s private life was just as spectacular. As the daughter of renowned film producer Aaron Spelling, Spelling was raised in a Hollywood household from an early age.

Her father left behind an estimated $600 million in inheritance when he went away in 2006. Nevertheless, he reportedly left Spelling and her brother with a combined $800,000 each.

After “Beverly Hills, 90210,” Spelling, although well-known, had financial difficulties. She accrued a large debt as a result of her extravagant spending habits while appearing on the popular show.

The actress acknowledged that she had trouble making ends meet. She found it especially difficult to support her children after divorcing Dean McDermott. In 2014, Spelling discussed her financial struggles and expressed concern about her inability to pay for her kids’ private education.

Spelling’s financial issues reportedly came to light in 2016 when she was sued by American Express for outstanding debts. Spelling and her five kids left the family home at one time. The actress first resided in a $100-per-night motel before moving in with a pal.

Spelling struggled to stop shopping as a coping tool despite her financial struggles. She used shopping as a coping mechanism and as a method to keep things normal.

In addition to financial difficulties, Spelling and McDermott’s marriage encountered serious difficulties. The actress acknowledged in 2021 that she and her spouse were sleeping in separate rooms.

There have been many highs and lows along Spelling’s path from the adored Donna Martin to her real-life tribulations, underscoring the difficulties of growing up in the spotlight and adjusting to the demands of fame and money.

After “Beverly Hills, 90210” concluded, the cast members went through a lot of highs and lows in their personal and professional lives. Nonetheless, they will always be recognized for creating the enduring characters in the series.