Unless you've been under the rock for the past three months, you've probably heard of 90210, the new Beverly Hills 90210 spin-off that's been picked up by The CW.  In line with the official order, the network has also released the first cast photo, which includes Dustin Milligan, AnnaLynne McCord, Jessica Walter, Shenae Grimes, Tristan Wilds, Lori Loughlin, Ryan Eggold, Jessica Stroup and Michael Steger.  While these names may have a lot to offer, the network is hoping to entice more of the show's original fans by booking Jennie Garth, who returns in a recurring role as her original character Kelly Taylor, now working as a guidance counselor, and Tori Spelling, who is currently negotiating for a possible return as well.

Noticeably, however, 90210 is still lacking of one more actor: the show's patriarch.  Since the series is all about The Mills family, in the same way Beverly Hills 90210 focused on the Walsh family, filling the role of father Harry Mills is crucial.  Unfortunately, producers are having difficulty eyeing someone they actually like.

"The producers don't like anyone they read," a source close to the show said.  "They tested someone on Tuesday morning, hoping to pull the trigger in time for the upfront, but the actor couldn't get approved."

Harry's introduction to the series can't be delayed either.  He's is the main reason for the Mills clan's relocation to Beverly Hills.  With 90210's production start date looming, execs have started to consider desperate measures, even thinking of bypassing the audition process and just offering the role to a name.  One name in particular, according to TV Guide, is Rob Estes.

As of the moment, there is no word yet on whether or not the former Melrose Place actor will be interested to take on the project.

Meanwhile, some fans have already launched a campaign to get Shannen Doherty on board to reprise her role as Brenda Walsh.


-Kris De Leon, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: TV Guide
(Image courtesy of ABC Media)