Jason Priestley continues to be one of the most versatile talents inHollywood, both in front of and behind the camera.
The son of an actress, Vancouverite Jason Priestley, began his own career as a child actor in TV commercials. After taking a hiatus from acting during high school, Priestley got back to work with roles on TV series as 21 Jump Street (which also launched Johnny Depp’s career) and the sitcom Sister Kate.
After Tori Spelling spotted Priestley on Sister Kate, she suggested to her father – Producer Aaron Spelling – that he try out for a role in a teen drama he was working on – Beverly Hills 90210. Priestley was cast as innocent Brandon Walsh, twin brother of the evil Brenda (Shannen Doherty).
Like many of his co-stars on 90210, Priestley was intent on laying the groundwork for a career after the series ended. While still acting on 90210, he also moved behind the camera to direct and produce dozens of episodes, and went on to receive critical acclaim for his role in the indie Love and Death on Long Island (1997). A big fan of the Barenaked Ladies, he persuaded them to appear on an episode of 90210 and went on to direct a documentary feature about their touring life in 1999’s Barenaked in America. He has since appeared in such popular series as My Name is Earl and Without a Trace, while directing shows 7th Heaven, Spin City, and The Secret Life of the American Teenager.
Athletes In Motion: Just Beat It is a bravoFACT short directed by Jason Priestley.