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Red
May 2005
Talking to ... Michael Vartan
by Eva Chen
Scans provided by Souris.
Alias' Agent Vaughn steps out of the shadows to costar with Jennifer Lopez and Jane Fonda in Monster-in-Law. Here, he shares classified information with Eva Chen.
What's your film character like?
It's a complete departure from my role on Alias. I play Kevin, a surgeon and all-around nice guy who comes from the right side of the tracks. He falls in love with Charlie, played by Jennifer Lopez. He proposes to her pretty quickly, sending his mom [played by Jane Fonda] into a tailspin of monstrous proportions.
Was being J.Lo's husband everything you expected?
She was completely lovely. The diva reputation is all constructed by the media. I thought she was earnest, hardworking, and genuinely sweet.
What's it like having Jane Fonda as a mother?
It was pretty clear to me from the outset why she's won two Oscars; she's amazing. I kept my ears open the whole time to try to absorb some of her brilliance.
Who in your family are you closest to?
My parents are divorced, but they both remarried great people. I love my whole family, but I'd have to say that my mother and I have the closest bond. I moved from France at 18 to be with her, and I still live nearby.
With whom would you most like to work?
Anyone in that old boys' club of Robert DeNiro, Al Pacino, and Gene Hackman. Meryl Streep is also one of my favorites; she's amazing in every role.
What was your last extravagant purchase?
You're asking the wrong guy -- I barely shop. I suppose my house was a large purchase, but it was 100 percent worth it. It's my oasis.
Do you have a secret vice?
This is so un-P.C. and un-L.A., but smoking. I quit but recently started again. I've tried everything, including acupuncture, but I think I just have to be ready to stop cold turkey.
What do you find attractive in a woman?
Imperfection. I'm not into the cookie cutter Barbie look so many men love. I like flaws, such as crooked smiles. It's sexy to be unique.
Who was your first celebrity crush?
Lynda Carter as Wonder Woman -- she was every adolescent boy's dream.
What's your philosophy on life?
Whether it's an incredible day or the worst day ever, I always try to remember that nothing lasts forever. I find the middle ground by just letting things be. Everything happens for a reason.
What keeps you grounded?
Activities that aren't industry-related. I play a lot of sports. If it weren't for the fact I'm so ancient, I would play hockey professionally. I have a dog, Millie -- Millicent when I'm mad at her -- that I love, and I have a support system of friends.
What keeps you up at night?
I sleep pretty well because I don't worry so much about the ins and outs of my job. If I did, I'd go insane. But the fear of getting lung cancer keeps me up sometimes.
Is there a historical figure you'd like to meet?
In spite of the fact that I'll sound like every other guy out there, Jimi Hendrix.
Any advice for Hollywood newcomers?
Remember that for every job a successful actor gets, there are 40 he didn't get. And your success comes with the help of others -- be grateful.
Three wishes?
I feel like I'm competing in the Miss America pageant, but I have to say world peace. And that all weapons of mass destruction would disappear. And that hockey season will come back a little bit faster next year.
What was the last...
Book you read? The Da Vinci Code. I'm the last one on the planet to have read it, but I have to admit it was great.
TV show you watched? Animal Planet. I'm not really into sitcoms; I'm a cable guy. I love educational channels. I'm nerdy like that.
Film you saw? Dodgeball. Absolutely hilarious, and a bunch of my friends are in it.
CD you bought? The greatest hits of The Police -- my dog chewed up my old copy.
Either/Or?
Youth or Experience
Work or Friends
Talking or Listening
© Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. Inc. 2005
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