The broadcast of this year’s Canada’s Walk of Fame induction ceremony will air on Monday, December 19 on Global. The show brings the country’s most notable personalities together and will include performances and tributes that honour the individuals for their achievements in music, sports, film, television, literary, visual and performing arts, science, innovation, philanthropy, and social justice.
This year’s inductees include Jeanne Beker (fashion entrepreneur, television personality and journalist), musician Corey Hart, filmmaker Deepa Mehta, former NHL player Darryl Sittler, Al Waxman (actor/director), country singer Brett Kissel, as well as actor/director Jason Priestley.
I got the chance to speak with Priestley, who currently stars on Global’s Private Eyes and – of course – fondly remembered for his role as Brandon Walsh on Beverly Hills, 90210.
Look for the actor to also be directing when the show returns for its second season in 2017. “I directed the first episode [of season two]. It’s always a challenge when you’re starring [on the show] as well, but we’ve got a great team on this show. I got a lot of support from them, which is key when you’re starring and directing.”
Priestley who’s also starred on Call My Fitz said that he was involved in his new TV project from its inception. “This project came to me as a series of books written by G. B. Joyce and we developed the show from there.”
As to where he’d see his famous alter ego, Brandon, in 2016, Priestley says, “I’m sure that Brandon is working for a struggling newspaper somewhere! Or he could be working for The Washington Post! He’s probably doing just fine.”
Could Priestley step into that role again in a revival? “I’m still friend with all those guys and given the right material, I think that we would all be open to discussing that kind of project.”
Until then, he’s happy that a new generation has discovered the hit series on Netflix. “It’s amazing that it’s still relevant. It shows that those kinds of experiences for young people really are timeless and universal.”
Canada’s Walk of Fame airs Monday, Dec. 19 at 9 p.m. ET on Global.
