Jason Priestley: 'Zac Efron Is The New Jason Priestley'

Updated 7:00 PM CST, Tue, Apr 28, 2009

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As Brandon Walsh on "Beverly Hills, 90210," Jason Priestley made a generation of young girls swoon during the 1990s.

But now, Jason says that honor has been passed to a new young "High School" heartthrob.

VIEW THE PHOTOS: 'High School' Heartthrob Zac Efron

"Zac Efron is the new Jason Priestley," Jason told "Valentine in the Morning" on LA's 104.3 MYFM on Tuesday.

And while it may be hard to compete with Jason's trademark sideburns, the actor thinks Zac has him beat in one physical aspect.

VIEW THE PHOTOS: 'High School Musical 3' Hollywood Premiere

"He's got better abs than I ever had," Jason added.

Despite Zac's tidal wave of success, Jason said he doesn't envy the young actor's position in Hollywood these days.

"It's so different. So much harsher now than it was for us. Brutal," Jason admitted. "The paparazzi that stalk these poor kids — and they're kids! You know what I mean?"

VIEW THE PHOTOS: Original '90210' Stars

And if he were to offer any advice to the new generation of pop culture superstars, Jason said it's important to keep priorities in order.

"My belief has always been it's about the work. The fame should always be a byproduct of quality work. Don't get into this business with the hopes of becoming famous," he said. "If you get into this business with the sole purpose of becoming famous, you're going to find that fame is empty and hollow and you'll end up naked and strung out on the streets of downtown Los Angeles."

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