March 2002

Cosmo Informer: We're Mad for Michael Vartan

By Lesley Goober

It's ironic that French-born actor Michael Vartan got his big break in a movie called Never Been Kissed -- after all, this 33-year-old heartthrob is one of Tinseltown's most smooch-worthy stars. While his role as Madonna's ex in The Next Best Thing helped solidify his celeb status, his current stint as agent Vaughn in the CIA drama Alias has him shooting to the top of Hollywood's hot list. With his chiseled good looks, one thing's for certain- this sexy spy won't stay undercover for long.

Have you ever had a crush on a costar?
Drew Barrymore while filming Never Been Kissed. She's a little hot pot, and she's nice to everyone. Plus, she's an amazing kisser. I also had a crush on Amanda Peet [while shooting Touch Me].

What do you look for in a woman?
Curves, curves, curves. I like healthy, corn-fed women who aren't afraid to have a steak, drink a cosmopolitan, and enjoy life.

Do you prefer French or American women?
American - they're a challenge. In the village where I grew up, you'd go to a dance, kiss a girl, and that was it -- she was your girlfriend. So when I started making out with a girl in a club in L.A., I though, Here's my new girlfriend. She had told me where she lived, and the next morning, I showed up at her door with coffee and muffins. She was like, "Dude, it's 9 A.M. Go home."

What's the wackiest nonacting job you've had?
I was a pool hustler. I hung out in a pool hall for 15 hours a day. It started out as something fun, but then I realized I was good. And it paid well-- I won $2,000 in one game.

Do you feel like you've "made it" yet?
I was a late bloomer -- I didn't even get laid until I was 18. Now that I'm 33, I'm starting to find my speed, and when the camera rolls, it's like "I deserve to be here. I don't suck."

Scan and transcript thanks to vartanetc.!

© Cosmopolitan Magazine 2002

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