Judd Nelson Praises Shannen Doherty's Resilience Amid Cancer Fight (Exclusive)

Judd Nelson Believes Ex Shannen Doherty Is a Real Survivor As She Battles Cancer

Judd Nelson and Shannen Doherty Getty Images

Judd Nelson shared his best wishes for his ex-girlfriend Shannen Doherty, who is currently battling stage 4 cancer.

"She's a true survivor. Sometimes I wonder if that's a good thing," Nelson, 64, said exclusively to We on Sunday, March 10. He was attending the Children Uniting Nations 24th Annual Academy Awards Celebration and Viewing Dinner in Beverly Hills.

"I have a lot of empathy for her and I truly wish her the best as she fights through this," he added.

Nelson, who briefly dated Doherty in 1993, believes that words of hope are always important for recovery.

He shared, "We're not sure if having a positive attitude about health actually improves how we feel. However, some evidence suggests that if you believe you'll get sick, you probably will."

Nelson mentioned that he hadn't seen Doherty in a while until a chance meeting two months ago. Despite the brief and unexpected encounter, the Breakfast Club alum was thrilled to catch up with his former flame.

He fondly recalled their impromptu hangout, describing it as "good." Although they didn't discuss her health, he couldn't help but compliment her appearance, saying, "She looked great. Was funny as hell, she always is."

Judd Nelson Believes Ex Shannen Doherty Is a Real Survivor As She Battles Cancer

Shannen Doherty LISA O'CONNOR/AFP via Getty Images

Doherty first learned she had cancer in 2015. Following two years of chemotherapy, she announced she was in remission. Unfortunately, in 2020, the cancer returned as stage IV breast cancer. By November 2023, Doherty shared that the cancer had spread to her bones.

In a later interview with People, the Charmed actress expressed her strong desire to keep on living. She stated, "I don’t want to die. I’m not done with living. I’m not done with loving. I’m not done with creating. I’m not done with hopefully changing things for the better."

In January 2024, Doherty shared that she felt hopeful after noticing progress from her latest treatment. She mentioned in her “Let’s Be Clear” podcast with radiation oncologist Dr. Amin Mirhadi that she had started a new cancer infusion. Initially, after four treatments, there was no visible change and everyone advised her to switch treatments. However, she decided to continue with the same treatment. Eventually, after the sixth or seventh treatment, they observed a significant breakthrough in breaking down the blood-brain barrier.

Doherty called her body’s response to the new treatment a “miracle” and chose to continue the infusions after consulting her medical team.

With reporting by Andrea Simpson

Editor's P/S:

Judd Nelson's heartfelt words for his former girlfriend, Shannen Doherty, are both poignant and inspiring. His acknowledgment of her resilience and his unwavering support serve as a testament to the enduring bonds that can exist between former romantic partners. Nelson's belief in the power of a positive attitude aligns with research suggesting that a positive mindset can enhance well-being and potentially aid in recovery.

The article also highlights Doherty's indomitable spirit and unwavering determination to continue living and making a difference. Her candid revelation of her cancer journey and her refusal to give up hope offer an invaluable lesson in facing adversity with courage and grace. Doherty's willingness to share her experience and advocate for cancer research underscores the importance of creating a supportive community and raising awareness about this devastating disease.