Charmed

Julian McMahon and Shannen Doherty, two beloved stars from the iconic series *Charmed*, shared a memorable romance that has captured the hearts of fans even after their untimely deaths. The pair’s relationship blossomed during the show’s third season in 2001, a period marked by both personal and professional challenges. Tragically, both actors lost their battles with cancer within a year of each other, with Doherty passing away in July 2024 at the age of 53, followed by McMahon on July 4, 2025, at 56. Their love story began on the set of *Charmed*, where McMahon portrayed Cole Turner, the on-screen love interest of Doherty’s character, Prue Halliwell. Their off-screen chemistry was palpable, leading to a romantic relationship that unfolded amidst the show’s dramatic narrative. However, this romance was complicated by Doherty’s tumultuous departure from the series, which was partially attributed to tensions with her co-star Alyssa Milano, who played her sister, Phoebe Halliwell. During a December 2023 podcast episode, Doherty reflected on the challenging environment on the *Charmed* set, mentioning her relationship with McMahon. She and her co-stars navigated personal relationships that intertwined with their professional lives, creating a unique but often stressful dynamic. As Doherty noted, while she and McMahon were dating, Milano was involved with Brian Krause, who played Leo, further complicating the atmosphere. Outside of *Charmed*, the couple starred together in the TV movie *Another Day*, where they played lovers in a storyline that involved time travel and emotional healing. By the time the film aired, however, their romance had already ended. Doherty’s personal life saw her marry multiple times, including a brief union with poker player Rick Salomon, while McMahon’s relationships included his marriage to actress Brooke Burns and later to Kelly Paniagua. The bond between McMahon and Doherty remained significant, as evidenced by the heartfelt tributes shared by their former co-stars following their deaths. Rose McGowan, who played Paige Matthews, expressed her sorrow over Doherty’s passing, calling her a “true lion heart” and a “warrior” in her battle against cancer. Similarly, McMahon’s passing prompted an outpouring of love and remembrance from his colleagues, with Holly Marie Combs sharing her hopes that he would reunite with Doherty in the afterlife. Doherty’s legacy extends beyond her role in *Charmed*. She began her career as a child actor on *Little House on the Prairie* and gained fame for her role in the cult classic film *Heathers*. Her journey through Hollywood was marked by both triumphs and struggles, including her candid discussions about her health battles and the impact of cancer on her life. McMahon, known for his roles in *Nip/Tuck* and *Charmed*, was remembered not just for his talent but also for his vibrant spirit and love for life. His family confirmed that he passed away peacefully after a private battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of joy and laughter that resonated with those who knew him. As fans of these two remarkable actors, we remember their contributions to television and the unique love story that unfolded on and off the screen. Their romance, though brief, was a testament to the powerful connections forged in the world of entertainment. Both McMahon and Doherty will be cherished not only for their roles in *Charmed* but also for the lasting impact they had on their fans and the industry. In remembering Julian McMahon and Shannen Doherty, we celebrate their lives, their work, and the love they shared that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences today. Their journey reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we love.