Behind the Scenes Stories From ‘90210’

Beverly Hills 90210 was all about the drama onscreen, and sometimes off screen as well. Okay, a lot of the time. Think you know all about Brandon, Brenda, Dylan and the gang? Here are some of the personal and casting dramas as well as some stories about the fan-favorite show you might not have heard before.

1. Luke Perry Wasn’t Originally a Cast Member

When 90210 first started Luke Perry as Dylan McKay supposedly wasn’t really popular with the Fox execs. The story goes that they didn’t want to hire him at all, so Aaron Spelling actually paid the actor out of his own pocket. Eventually the audience fell for him and then they officially signed him as a series cast member, even though he was only originally written into three episodes.

2. Everyone Tried to Get Shannen Fired

It’s no longer news that Shannen Doherty is a real pain in the butt to work with, but it got so bad on 90210 that the whole cast got together and tried to get her fired. At first Tori Spelling was hesitant because she considered her a friend, but then Shannen threatened her on set and Tori agreed she had to go.

3. Then Shannen Did Get Fired

When Shannen did get fired fans were a bit shocked to see her go. However, a new bad girl/love interest was written in to the show to keep things interesting. Apparently Drew Barrymore and Alicia Silverstone were offered the role of Valerie, which they both turned down. Then the role almost ended up going to Alyssa Milano before Tiffani Amber Thiessen ultimately was cast.