Shannen Doherty To Head Back to Bev9er?

Let the cougar-fights begin. Rumors are swirling that Shannen Doherty has been approached to join the cast of the all new 90210 debuting on The CW next year. According to Ausiello, Shannen’s interest is piqued but “she wants to know what the story is going to be first.” And then there are those pesky dollar signs to deal with.

I’m sure this news bring such joy to Doherty’s former co-stars and current new 90210 residents, Jennie Garth and Tori Spelling. And if you didn’t pick up on the sarcasm then I’d venture to guess that you were born after say 1990. The history of in-fighting and animosity is legendary, especially between Garth and Doherty who had more than a few verbal altercations, and even some physical ones back in their ‘prentending to be teens’ years. I’m hands down Team Garth, and always have been. But to her credit, when asked about rumors of Doherty’s involvement Jennie has said publicly that “A lot of time has passed, and I’m a big girl. I’d have no problem with her coming on the show.” Well, I’m not sure I buy that, but I do know that Jennie is now a mature woman and I don’t doubt that she would handle herself well if problems did arise between the two. But I don’t think they’ll be hanging out in each other’s trailers in between scenes.

As for my take on Doherty’s involvement in the show? I could take her or leave her. I know this news will excite some but I question why. Is it more for what Brenda Walsh could bring to the show or the potential drama between Doherty and well, anyone she encounters?

My bigger concern here is the overall vision for the new 90210. It’s almost as if the only buzz the show is getting is from the casting of the old Bev9er crew. Do these West Beverly High alums have a solid place in the series, or are they just being written in haphazardly because they have agreed to come on board? The novelty of their appearance is going to wear off very quickly if they are just used gratuitously.

That being said, I’m all for seeing a few more familiar faces…perhaps in guest appearances? Luke Perry has already passed. Ian Ziering is now in begging mode. Jason Priestly hasn’t showed too much excitement, but I don’t know if he’s been formally approached yet. Gabrielle Carteris is too busy running her local chapter of AARP and Brian Austin Greene is kicking future robot ass on TERMINATOR: THE SARAH CONNOR CHRONICLES (and don’t even think about approaching him…I love David Silver on that show).

I’m sure we’ll hear more about Doherty’s casting news in the weeks to come. In the meantime, I’ll send some herbal tea to Ms. Garth…she’s going to need something to keep calm while this all gets figured out.