Tori Spelling, deeply distressed, shares that she feels the presence of her late best friend, Shannen Doherty, guiding and supporting her during her challenging times on “Dancing With the Stars.”

Despite Shannen Doherty’s passing earlier this year, her memory continues to profoundly influence and inspire her close friend, Tori Spelling, especially as Spelling tackles new challenges on “Dancing With the Stars.”

Spelling recently opened up about the emotional struggle of participating in the popular dance competition shortly after Doherty’s death. Doherty, who passed away from breast cancer on July 13 at the age of 53, had been a significant source of inspiration for Spelling. As Spelling adjusts to her new role on the show, she draws strength from Doherty’s enduring spirit and commitment.

In her reflections, Spelling acknowledged that the timing of the show is particularly difficult, coming so soon after the loss of Doherty. “It’s definitely a hard time with doing the show and all the excitement and having lost Shan so recently,” Spelling confessed. “But I remember how much she loved performing and how dedicated she was. Her passion for life and work has inspired me to push through.”

Spelling and Doherty shared a close bond through their roles on “Beverly Hills, 90210,” where they both achieved fame and built a lasting friendship. Spelling described Doherty as a “big champion” in her life and credited her late friend with encouraging her to embrace her own potential. “She definitely inspired me to turn my power on and go for it,” Spelling said. “That’s something I’m carrying with me, deeply embedded in my heart.”

In addition to dealing with her grief, Spelling has faced personal challenges, including a recent separation from her husband, Dean McDermott, and financial difficulties. She revealed that her decision to join “Dancing With the Stars” was partly motivated by a desire to turn her life around and rediscover herself. “I’ve been asked to join the show many times over the years, but I always hesitated because of fear. This year, I decided to confront what scares me the most and use it as a catalyst for change in my life,” Spelling explained.

Spelling’s appearance on the show comes 14 years after Doherty’s own stint on “Dancing With the Stars,” where Doherty competed in the tenth season. During her time on the show, Doherty was partnered with two-time champion Mark Ballas, though they were the first couple eliminated. Spelling hopes to honor Doherty’s legacy by embracing this opportunity with courage and dedication.

Spelling has openly shared her emotional journey following Doherty’s death, including her reaction to the news and the impact it has had on her life. She expressed deep sadness and frustration upon learning of her friend’s passing, describing her feelings of disbelief and anger. Despite the challenges, Spelling remains committed to celebrating Doherty’s memory and applying her friend’s lessons to her own life and career.

Through her participation in “Dancing With the Stars,” Spelling aims to keep Doherty’s spirit alive, using the show as a platform to honor her friend’s legacy and navigate her own personal challenges with renewed strength and determination.