Sophia Michaels
Shannen Doherty’s time on “Charmed” was not as magical as her character’s mystical adventures. Despite playing a powerful witch with a heart of gold, her relationship with her co-stars was far from harmonious. In 2001, Doherty criticized Alyssa Milano, who played Phoebe Halliwell, for her negativity on set. Doherty expressed her frustration about Milano’s complaints despite the high pay and simple work routine. Unfortunately, Doherty’s passing has left these relationships forever strained.
Many of Doherty’s former “Charmed” colleagues have shared their condolences since her death. Rose McGowan praised Doherty’s passion for her craft and Alyssa Milano acknowledged the complexity of their relationship but expressed deep respect for Doherty. Despite the feuds, the lasting impact of Doherty’s presence on the show is undeniable.
Even after her passing, the tensions between Doherty and Milano persisted.
Shannen Doherty’s Strained Relationship with Aaron Spelling
Despite the passage of time, the conflicts between Shannen Doherty and some “Charmed” cast members persisted until shortly before her death. The tensions began in the early 2000s when Doherty, who played Prue, was written off the show after Season 3 in 2001. Her departure led to public criticisms of Aaron Spelling, the producer of “Charmed” and her former boss from “Beverly Hills, 90210.”
Despite initial reservations from past experiences with Spelling, Doherty eventually agreed to work on the show at the urging of her friend and future co-star, Holly Marie Combs. However, the reunion with Spelling didn’t live up to expectations.
Alyssa Milano’s Role in Shannen Doherty’s Departure
According to Shannen Doherty, Alyssa Milano played a part in her departure from “Charmed,” despite initial claims that Doherty willingly left the show. Holly Marie Combs supported Doherty’s account, revealing that producer Jonathan Levin had blamed Milano for instigating Doherty’s exit due to threats of legal action.
Milano later acknowledged her own role in the strained relationship with Doherty and expressed regret for the competition between them during their time on the show. Despite the conflicts, Milano offered support to Doherty during her battle with cancer.
The question remains: has Milano taken responsibility for Doherty’s dismissal?
# Alyssa Milano on Shannen Doherty’s Firing
Alyssa Milano addressed the narrative created by her co-stars regarding Shannen Doherty’s firing from “Charmed.” Milano expressed her disappointment with the ongoing conflicts and revealed that she was saddened by how the show had been affected by toxicity. She denied having a role in Doherty’s dismissal and emphasized that it was a decision made by the studio, Aaron Spelling, and the network to protect the show’s success.
Milano also mentioned the mediation process that took place due to conflicts onset and hinted that the mediator’s recommendations influenced Doherty’s departure from the series. She highlighted the show’s continued success after Doherty’s exit and expressed her gratitude for the additional seasons that followed.
# Cast Support for Shannen Doherty
Holly Marie Combs defended herself and Doherty against Alyssa Milano’s claims, stating that Milano and Doherty’s version of events differed. Combs refuted Milano’s assertion that she lacked the power to prevent Doherty’s departure from the show. Doherty, alongside Rose McGowan and Combs, shared their perspective on the situation, with Doherty implying that Milano’s desire to be the star led to her dismissal.
Doherty emphasized the importance of preserving the truth and not allowing revisionist history to overshadow their experiences. McGowan added her thoughts, quoting Katt Williams: “Winners do not let losers rewrite history.”
# Support for Alyssa Milano
Former “Charmed” writer Krista Vernoff supported Alyssa Milano’s account of the challenging work environment on the show. Vernoff confirmed instances of bullying on set and commended Milano for not participating in such behavior. Actor Misha Collins also praised Milano for her professionalism and kindness during his guest appearance.
Vernoff’s backing of Milano came after a “Charmed” reunion on “Grey’s Anatomy” involving Milano and Combs. Vernoff admired the dynamic between the two actresses and highlighted their powerful presence and shared political activism. Although Shannen Doherty was not part of the reunion, the event signaled potential reconciliation among the surviving cast members in the future.
Rest in peace, Shannen Doherty.
