Full Breakdown
Jennie Garth Reflects on Her Feud with Shannen Doherty and First Love Luke Perry
4/10/2026, 6:53:02 PM
The Roots of the Garth-Doherty Feud
Jennie Garth has publicly addressed the long-standing feud with her late *Beverly Hills, 90210* co-star Shannen Doherty, attributing the tensions to the show's storylines and the pressures of fame. In an interview with *People*, Garth explained that both actresses were thrust into the spotlight and portrayed as rivals, which shaped public perception of their relationship. Garth stated, “I think we were both in the same position, really thrust into the spotlight, and we were written as characters to be against each other.” This dynamic created a confusing environment for both women, who were left to navigate the intense media scrutiny without guidance.
Garth noted that the rivalry between their characters, Kelly Taylor and Brenda Walsh, intensified when Kelly began dating Brenda's boyfriend, Dylan McKay. She reflected on the impact of this storyline, saying, “This energy was coming at us from everywhere and pitting us against each other.” Garth emphasized that neither she nor Doherty received support or counseling during this tumultuous time, leading them to fend for themselves.
A Complex Relationship
Despite the public feud, Garth acknowledged a mutual respect and admiration for Doherty. She remarked, “At the end of the day, we really did have a respect for one another as strong women who have lasted a long time in this industry.” Garth's sentiments were echoed in her tribute to Doherty following her death in July 2024, where she described their connection as “real and honest.”
Garth's First Love: Luke Perry
In addition to her reflections on Doherty, Garth recently revealed that her *Beverly Hills, 90210* co-star Luke Perry was her "first true love." This admission sheds light on the personal dynamics among the cast during the show's run from 1990 to 2000. Garth stated, “I do think he was my first true love,” indicating that their on-screen chemistry translated into a deeper connection off-screen.
Garth's memoir, *I Choose Me: Chasing Joy, Finding Purpose, and Embracing Reinvention*, discusses her experiences and relationships during her time on the show. She described how the intense romantic storylines affected her views on love, stating, “It had a huge impact on my view of love and relationships.”
Official Statements & Responses
Garth's reflections highlight the complexities of navigating fame and personal relationships in the entertainment industry. She expressed regret over the lack of support for young actors during the show's peak, noting, “Nobody was guiding us. Nobody was getting therapy then.”
What's Next
Garth and her former co-stars from *Beverly Hills, 90210* are expected to pay tribute to Shannen Doherty at a memorial event later this year, honoring her legacy and the impact she had on their lives and careers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “What they’re saying “I think we were both in the same position, really thrust into the spotlight, and we were written as characters to be against each other.” — Jennie Garth, Actress
- “This energy was coming at us from everywhere and pitting us against each other.” — Jennie Garth, Actress
- “At the end of the day, we really did have a respect for one another as strong women who have lasted a long time in this industry.” — Jennie Garth, Actress
- “I do think he was my first true love.” — Jennie Garth, Actress
- “Nobody was guiding us. Nobody was getting therapy then. Nobody was talking to us about things. We were both just fending for ourselves.” — Jennie Garth, Actress
