Sarah Michelle Gellar farewells friend of 30 years Shannen Doherty

Actress Sarah Michelle Gellar has shared tributes to her friend of 30 years, Shannen Doherty, who died on Saturday at age 53 after a long battle with cancer.

Charmed and Beverly Hills 90210 star Doherty’s longtime publicist Leslie Sloane confirmed her death in a statement to People magazine on Sunday.

Doherty had battled cancer for more than nine years.

She was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015, undergoing a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiation treatment before declaring herself in remission in 2017.

But the cancer returned in 2020, with Doherty revealing it had metastasised, spreading into her spine and later into her brain.

Gellar shared photos of the friends taken over the years, saying: “How do you possibly find the right words to sum up 30 years of friendship?”

“I keep reminding myself it only hurts this much because there was so much love.”

The Buffy star thanked those people who had reached out with “kind words and support” following Doherty’s death, going on to encourage her followers to honour the late actress by helping their local animal charities.

“More than anything, Shan loves animals, especially dogs,” Gellar said.

“In her memory, let’s support our favourite animal charities.

“Whether that’s donating money (or) stopping by your local shelter and just offering cuddles and walks to animals housed there.”

She also encouraged her followers to tag their favourite charity in the comments to help spread awareness.

“I know that would make our girl happy and elicit that deep throaty laugh we all loved,” Gellar said.

Gellar later thanked everyone for the love and donations, sharing a compilation of videos of she and Doherty having fun together.

“Here are some videos of the Shan I know,” Gellar said.

“The friend that was up for anything no matter how ridiculous.”

In the first video, Doherty jokingly attempts to recreate a poolside photo Gellar had posted online before falling into the water.

The second video shows the pair battling while wearing blow up orbs.

In the remaining three videos, Doherty and Gellar take turns creatively pouring beverages into the other’s mouth.

Commenters thanked Gellar for sharing the memories.

“Seeing the pure friendship you guys had makes me so happy,” one person said.

“I think we all aspire to have friendships like this,” another said.

Another person referred to the friends as “soulmates”.

“These videos are priceless,” they said. “Thank you for sharing your beautiful friendship with us.”

“Time is so precious. I see my own friendships through yours and it makes my heart break for you, but am so moved by your connection and know that it’s forever.”

Doherty’s Charmed co-star Holly Marie Combs also shared a touching tribute for her “better half of 31 years”.

“There is a hollow in my chest and I can’t seem to catch my breath,” Combs said.

“A part of me is missing even though I know exactly what you would say to me right now.

“I know exactly what you would tell me to do right now.

“I know your undying spirit will live in me and my kids who you loved as your own.

“They will walk with your sense of purpose and pride.

“They will be truthful and stand up for what is right. No matter what and zero f**** given.

“Your fire will live on in them and the many other Charmed ones you helped raise.

“A fierce fighter til the end. My most ardent champion. My loyal protector. My best friend.

“You taught me the meaning of family. You were and will be forevermore my sister. I love you.”

Fellow Charmed alum Rose McGowan commented on the post, saying Doherty was Combs’ “true love forever”.

“To watch you together is to know love exists,” she said.

“I’m so sorry your best girl had to go.“