Jennie Garth is "still processing [her] tremendous grief" following the death of Shannen Doherty

Alongside a throwback picture of herself and Shannen, she wrote on Instagram: "I am still processing my tremendous grief over the loss of my long-time friend Shannen, the woman I have often described as one of the strongest people I have ever known. Our connection was real and honest. We were so often pitted against each other but none of that reflected the truth of our real relationship which was one built on mutual respect and admiration."

The former 'What I Like About You' star noted that Shannen was "courageous, passionate and determined" in life and sent her condolences to her family and dog as she concluded her tribute.

She added: "She was courageous, passionate, determined and very loving and generous. I will miss her and will always honour her deeply in my heart and in my memories. My heart breaks for her family and Bowie

The star underwent surgery towards the end of last year to remove a brain tumour she had named Bob and instead at the time that she had worked tirelessly to regain her motor skills and dec lared herself as "not a quitter".

She charted her health battles on the podcast 'Let's Be Clear with Shannen Doherty' and insisted as late as November 2023 that she "wasn't done" with living.

The actress - who was also known for starring in witchcraft series 'Charmed' - was diagnosed with stage four cancer in 2020 and finally succumbed to the disease over the weekend, her publicist Leslie Sloane confirmed.

She told People: "It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease,

"The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace."