The Spelling Family Drama

Candy Spelling has hit back at estranged daughter Tori for causing a media circus around the death of legendary TV producer Aaron Spelling.

The family released a statement in direct response to Tori's interview in the new issue of Us Weekly magazine, in which she says the news of her father's death came as a complete shock.

The statement, released on Thursday, says, "We are deeply saddened that, during our time of loss and grief, we are forced to respond to the media frenzy caused by the mean-spirited and surprising comments made by Tori to the press, just two days after the passing of Aaron.

"As we try to honor his memory with love and respect, the sudden media frenzy she has created at this sensitive time is hurtful and very disturbing. "Aaron's legacy deserves pure and unadulterated tribute and recognition which, sadly, has been tainted.

"We hope Aaron will be remembered with reverence and spirit for the monumental legacy he has left and not the petty and tabloid headlines which have marred his articles of remembrance."

sfgate