Late ‘Charmed’ Star Shannen Doherty’s Mom, Rosa, Fulfills One of Her Last Wishes
The world may have said goodbye to the late actress Shannen Doherty, but her legacy lives on as her mother continues the work she started to honor her memory.
Rosa Doherty is continuing her late daughter’s podcast, “Let’s Be Clear with Shannen Doherty,” fulfilling one of her daughter’s final wishes. In a recent episode, Rosa shared her decision to take over the podcast, thanking fans for their support.
Rosa Doherty speaks in her late daughter’s “Let’s Be Clear with Shannon Doherty” podcast, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/letsbeclearpod
“I just want to say thank you to everybody, and I am now going to be doing my best to try to continue this for her because that’s what we discussed that she wanted me to do,” Rosa said.
Rosa Doherty speaks in her late daughter’s “Let’s Be Clear with Shannon Doherty” podcast, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/letsbeclearpod
She acknowledged that she could never fully replace her daughter but hoped to honor Shannen’s legacy through the show. “I’m not I’m not as well spoken as she was, but I’m here for all of you, and I hope you’re all here for me [sic],” she added.
Rosa Doherty speaks in her late daughter’s “Let’s Be Clear with Shannon Doherty” podcast, posted in August 2024 | Source: Instagram/letsbeclearpod
Shannen launched “Let’s Be Clear” to connect with her fans and correct misconceptions about her life. Rosa noted, “This podcast meant so much to Shannon [sic] because it allowed her to tell her story and tell her truth and over the years there’s been so many stories and untruths and things mixed up that it was just fun.”
Rosa shared that the podcast gave her a chance to show people what her life is truly like, which was important to her. It was especially meaningful because she got to witness Shannen create something so special.
Shannen Doherty and her mother, Rosa, arrive at Charles-de-Gaulle airport in Paris, France, on March 13, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
Shannen often credited her resilience to her mother. In a 2023 interview with People, she spoke about how Rosa survived a brain aneurysm when Shannen was just eight years old, despite having only a 10% chance of survival.
Rosa’s determination left a lasting impact on Shannen, teaching her to approach life with perseverance. “I think I was always a fighter. I was raised that way to be very strong and that I could do anything that I put my mind to,” Shannen said at the time.
Now that Rosa is at the helm of the podcast, she is committed to keeping her daughter’s message alive. Shannen died at the age of 53 after a long battle with cancer.
Leslie Sloane, Shannen’s longtime publicist, said, “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.”
Leslie shared that Shannen, a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, and friend, was surrounded by loved ones, including her dog, Bowie. She also requested privacy for the family to grieve in peace.
The star, best known for her role in “Beverly Hills 90210,” was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015 and has been open about her health struggles over the years.
Amid her struggles, Shannen shared how her dog Bowie, named after the late David Bowie, had an uncanny intuition about her health issues before she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Bowie would obsessively sniff her right side, where the cancer was later discovered, signaling an early warning that something was amiss.
After her diagnosis and through her treatments, including surgery and chemotherapy, Bowie’s behavior shifted to become even more protective. Shannen described her dog’s presence as “crazy protective,” making it difficult for anyone to get close to her, a testament to the deep bond they share.
Just two days after her daughter’s passing, Rosa reached out with heartfelt gratitude to all the fans who stood by her during this difficult time.
Reflecting on her daughter’s memory, Rosa shared a poignant tribute. “She is my beautiful girl and my heart,” she expressed in a statement. “Our family wants to thank everyone who has shown love and support for our Shannen throughout her life. We are truly appreciative.”
In her final public appearance, Shannen was seen enjoying a peaceful evening with her close friends and family. The actress took a stroll in Malibu, California, with Rosa and longtime friend Chris Cortazzo.
After the stroll, the trio dined at Kristy’s waterfront restaurant, a serene spot with picturesque views. The moment unknowingly served as the backdrop for one of Shannen’s final public outings.
The photos captured the group enjoying every moment, radiating genuine warmth and camaraderie. Chris, who was positioned between Shannen and her mother, had his arm wrapped around Shannen, exuding a sense of protection.
The three were casually dressed in jeans, with Rosa and Chris matching in black tops. Shannen opted for a simple yet stylish gray short-sleeved cardigan paired with a black cap.
The photos showcased the joy and comfort Shannen found in the company of her loved ones. This moment reflected her positive outlook even in the face of a long and challenging battle with cancer.
Like Rosa, Chris was deeply affected by Shannen’s passing. He took to Instagram to share a heartfelt video filled with memories of their time together. Alongside the video, Chris penned a moving tribute to Shannen, referring to her as his “beloved friend and heart.”
Reflecting on the laughter and countless memories they shared, Chris honored Shannen’s role in his life. He described her as his “protector, best friend, and divine wife.” His sorrow was palpable as he wrote, “My heart is shattered,” before concluding with the touching words, “I love you forever, my sweet dear friend.”
Chris and Shannen shared a deep bond. In a past episode of her podcast, the two friends shared an open and honest conversation, where Shannen revealed details about her will and her wishes for her funeral arrangements.
During their chat, the two friends expressed their desire to never say goodbye. When Chris joked about passing away before Shannen, she quickly reminded him that it wasn’t an option since he was the executor of her will.
Shannen Doherty and Chris Cortazzo at Nobu Malibu on December 15, 2014, in Malibu, California. | Source: Getty Images
“That’s not happening. Dude, you’re the executor of my will. You control everything when I’m dead,” Shannen said. She also emphasized that she wanted Chris to take care of her mother after her passing.
Rosa Doherty arrives at Charles-de-Gaulle airport in Paris, France on March 13, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
Shannen also humorously mentioned she only wanted three attendees during her funeral: Chris, her mother, and her dog Bowie. She explained that this list came to mind when she faced brain surgery in January, fearing she might not survive. She said she didn’t want her funeral to be a somber affair but a celebration of love, a joyful gathering akin to a party.
Shannen Doherty smiles in West Hollywood on June 17, 2010 | Source: Getty Images
Rosa’s decision to continue Shannen Doherty’s podcast keeps her daughter’s legacy alive. By sharing Shannen’s stories and courage in each episode, Rosa honors her final wish and keeps her spirit connected to fans everywhere.
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