Brandon Walsh, played by Jason Priestley, was the highly ethical lead character in the popular 1990s American television drama Beverly Hills 90210.

Back story

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Born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota with twin sister Brenda (Shannen Doherty), Brandon was the eldest child of Jim & Cindy Walsh. As a result of Jim's job promotion, the family moved to Beverly Hills in 1990, where Brandon and Brenda enrolled at the local West Beverly Hills High School, where in the pilot they met new friends Steve Sanders (Ian Ziering) and Kelly Taylor (Jennie Garth). In episode two, "The Green Room," Brandon befriended loner Dylan McKay (Luke Perry).

Love life

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During the show's run, Brandon gained notoriety for having a remarkably high number of relationships with women, sometimes only for one episode, played largely by series guest stars. Among the most notable were the troubled Emily Valentine (Christine Elise) and sophomore Nikki Witt (Dana Barron), an infatuated girl who comically wore down Brandon's defenses during the episode, "The Back Story." Ultimately, his deepest love was for Kelly, a once posh girl who attempted to win Brandon's heart twice throughout the series, succeeding the second time (in "Mr. Walsh Goes To Washington"), and gradually becoming a more compassionate character after moving in with him once his parents and Brenda had moved away.

Cultural significance

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As the show gained popularity, Brandon Walsh became a sex symbol, with many men copying his clothing and hairstyle. The character also catapulted the unknown Jason Priestley to stardom; Brandon Walsh remains his most famous role by far.

television drama characters