Beverly Hills, 90210 creator Darren Star recalls BACKLASH after Dylan and Brenda had sex during episode on hit series

Beverly Hills, 90210 creator Darren Star recalls BACKLASH after Dylan and Brenda had sex during episode on hit series

As I delve deeper into the world of Hollywood, I can’t help but be struck by the poignant tales of camaraderie and shared experiences that emerge from the sets of iconic television shows like Beverly Hills, 90210. The bond between Shannen Doherty and Luke Perry, two actors who brought life to their complex characters, Brenda Walsh and Dylan McKay, is a testament to the power of shared journeys and the magic that unfolds when artists connect on such profound levels.


Darren Star, the mind behind Beverly Hills 90210, remembered facing criticism when Dylan and Brenda, two major characters, engaged in a romantic act during an episode.

As a devoted admirer following in the footsteps of this esteemed creator, I eagerly shared my insights when given the opportunity during an interview with Vulture, which was made public on Wednesday. This prolific individual has captivated audiences with masterpieces like Sex and The City and Emily In Paris.

In the TV show, Shannen Doherty took on the character of Brenda, whereas Luke Perry played Dylan. During the initial season, their characters attended a school dance (junior prom) and later shared a night together.

Nevertheless, the feedback from Fox Network was rather critical as Darren pointed out, “There were numerous suggestions. Handling issues related to sexuality proved challenging.”

At first, they asked, “Where are the adults? Where are the educators?” But I clarified that the series wasn’t focused on parents or teachers. Instead, it centered around a group of friends supporting one another and helping each other overcome their challenges.

Beverly Hills, 90210 creator Darren Star recalls BACKLASH after Dylan and Brenda had sex during episode on hit series

‘When all these affiliates realized what they’d aired, a lot of them got bent out of shape.’ 

Star went on, expressing that it wasn’t only that Brenda engaged in sexual activity, but rather her enjoyment of it. Upon returning for the subsequent season, they required an episode in which she expressed regret.

Initially, she expressed disbelief, saying something along the lines of, “I can’t believe I have to write this.” Later on, she encountered a situation where she feared she might be pregnant. Reflecting upon it, she recognized that she was still too young to engage in sexual activities.

He said other ‘edgier’ episodes had also aired during the show’s time on Fox, but did not garner as much backlash. 

Darren continued discussing the TV series, which ran on air from 1990 to 2000, completing a total of ten seasons.

Besides Doherty and Perry, a number of other well-known actors graced the show, such as Tori Spelling, Jason Priestley, Jennie Garth, Ian Ziering, and Brian Austin Green.

Star stated that Beverly Hills, 90210 was an incredibly unlikely success, further mentioning that no one had previously created a television series centered around teenagers, told from their own perspective.

The show, created by Aaron Spelling, frequently faced the threat of being taken off the air, as Darren shared in his disclosure.

Beverly Hills, 90210 creator Darren Star recalls BACKLASH after Dylan and Brenda had sex during episode on hit series
Beverly Hills, 90210 creator Darren Star recalls BACKLASH after Dylan and Brenda had sex during episode on hit series

I recall Aaron discussing with the team, stating, “Let’s have three more episodes.” He was a champion for the series.

The writer went on to say, ‘It struggled until the re-broadcasts improved. After that, it returned during the summer and took off like wildfire.’

In late July this year (specifically on the 13th), Doherty sadly lost his life at the age of 53, having fought a long battle against breast cancer. On March 4, 2019, Perry tragically passed away following complications from an ischemic stroke that had occurred just a few days prior.

Darren pondered over Shannen’s recent demise and remembered their time together, expressing that her presence motivated him to delve deeper into writing for the character of Brenda.

As a devoted admirer, I can’t help but acknowledge the extraordinary, vibrant nature of the individuals I follow, such as Brenda and Shannen. Reflecting on their impact, I find myself profoundly struck by how my own career trajectory has been shaped and molded by the creation of strong, dynamic female characters.

Star added, ‘Shannen gave Brenda so much spirit and determination and complication.’

1. ‘She was a free-spirited individual, feeling intensely. Her portrayal beautifully encapsulated the essence of a teenager, who in truth, possessed great strength.’

Luke and Shannen seemed to forge a strong connection that started when they both acted in the series “Beverly Hills, 90210” together.

Beverly Hills, 90210 creator Darren Star recalls BACKLASH after Dylan and Brenda had sex during episode on hit series

Speaking about Luke in 2019 after his unexpected death, Shannen described him as an intelligent, reserved, modest individual who was deeply compassionate, possessing an abundance of sincerity and affection.

‘We share a unique form of affection, reminiscent of our shared experiences on 90210, and also the ups and downs of everyday life in general.’

‘Luke and I were working on show ideas for us,’ the actress revealed to the outlet. 

In my heart, I yearn for another collaboration with him, to produce something extraordinary and significant, a testament of our enduring bond as we tread the latter part of our lives. Each day, each moment, and each ticking second, I’ll carry his absence with me.

In the very same year at RewindCon held in Chicago, Doherty shared that he had taught Luke a great deal. He added, with gratitude, that it was truly meaningful for him to have her by his side as a collaborator during our scenes.

Regarding Shannen, if anyone ever had discussions about her, I would always be able to confirm that when she was focused and working with us, everything ran smoothly without any issues. Her skills and abilities were truly remarkable.

Apart from that, it was announced that Darren marked the start of the fourth season of his popular Netflix show, “Emily in Paris,” which premiered its initial episodes on Thursday, August 15.

The main actors for this production include Lily Collins, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, Ashley Park, Lucas Bravo, Camille Razat, Samuel Arnold, Lucien Laviscount, and Bruno Gouery.

Beverly Hills, 90210 creator Darren Star recalls BACKLASH after Dylan and Brenda had sex during episode on hit series
Beverly Hills, 90210 creator Darren Star recalls BACKLASH after Dylan and Brenda had sex during episode on hit series

Regarding the upcoming season, Darren shared insights with Vulture about what lies ahead for certain characters.

Emily feels right at home in Paris now, as the show has moved beyond the original idea where she was like a fish out of water.

He noted, “Their relationship between Emily and Gabriel seemed so enchantingly genuine that it felt almost tangible. I aimed for this series to move beyond the ‘love triangle’ trope – I wouldn’t call it a trope, but rather a place where it had been.”

As a devoted fan, I believe the narrative has been revolving around familiar faces up until now. However, fresh personalities have entered the scene. In the latter part of the season, we find ourselves transported to Rome. The storyline unfolds in two distinct segments.

Read More

2024-08-16 03:52

Previous post Emily in Paris season four review: Steamy scenes on a rooftop, a menage a quatre … Emily’s back in the City of Love