September 27, 2002

Michael Vartan Hopes 'Alias' Rises

LOS ANGELES (AP) - Michael Vartan is hoping 11 Emmy nominations and two wins will get more people to watch "Alias" when it starts its second season on Sunday night.

Despite the critical acclaim and all the publicity actress Jennifer Garner has received, Vartan believes many viewers still aren't aware that "Alias" is on the air.

"But people really don't know what 'Alias' is," the 33-year-old actor told reporters. "I think that it definitely has the potential to be a much bigger show than it is with the proper backing."

Vartan portrays Agent Vaughn in ABC's drama opposite Emmy-winner Garner, who plays Sydney Bristow.

"Alias'" time slot puts it head-to-head with HBO's mob drama "The Sopranos," and analysts believe that has hurt the show's ratings.

However, Brad Adgate, senior vice president of the advertising firm Horizon Media, thinks "Alias" may take off due to Garner's star power.

"I think Jennifer Garner is really the next big star," Adgate said.

Vartan agrees.

"Jennifer is somehow, I think, gotten bigger than the show," Vartan said. "She's amazing. I think people really like her."

© AP 2002

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