Jason Priestley: from 1990s heartthrob to director and family man
The actor who played Brandon Walsh in Beverly Hills 90210 now focuses on directing and leads a quiet family life.
Jason Priestley became an international star in 1990 when he was cast as Brandon Walsh in the cult television series Beverly Hills 90210. The show turned him into one of the defining teen idols of the 1990s and launched a level of fame that followed him for years.
From on-screen star to work behind the camera
During his time on the series Priestley did more than act: in later seasons he tried his hand behind the camera, directing individual episodes and serving as an executive producer on the show.
The Canadian, born August 28, 1969 in Vancouver, did not disappear after the series ended. He continued to appear in films and television but increasingly devoted himself to directing and producing, working on projects such as Call Me Fitz and Private Eyes, and remains active on productions across Canada and the United States.
Unlike many of his contemporaries whose careers were punctuated by controversy, Priestley largely avoided major scandals and kept a steady professional course.
On the personal side he has enjoyed a calm family life: since 2005 he is married to Naomi Lauder-Priestley and they have two children.
Now 56 years old, Priestley shows signs of maturity—his hair is almost completely white—but he remains recognizable thanks to his warm smile and buoyant presence. Fans on social media frequently note that he is ageing with dignity while still radiating the charisma that made him the favorite boy of Beverly Hills.
Photo: press material from the event
