Actors Michael Vartan (L) and Stephen Curry pose during the Aussie Millions Celebrity Challenge in the poker room at Crown Casino

By Laura Parker

American actor Michael Vartan has touched down in Melbourne for the 2008 Aussie Millions Poker Championship. Vartan, best known for his role as Michael Vaughn in Alias, will compete for a slice of the $10 million plus prize pool in the main event poker category until January 20. Vartan has had noticeable roles in major movies, including Never Been Kissed (1999), One Hour Photo (2002) and Monster-in-Law (2005) before appearing in the Australian horror film Rogue. He will next star in the film Jolene.

Vartan is no stranger to major poker tournaments, having played all across the world and on Celebrity Poker Showdown in the USA. FILMINK caught up with Vartan to get the low-down on his poker face.

What attracted you to the Aussie Millions Poker Championship?
"A chance to come back to beautiful Melbourne, play poker, and the Crown Casino being incredibly generous to put me up for three weeks and sponsor me in the Tournament."

Well, no kidding. How long have you been playing poker for and what features of the game intrigue you most?
"I've been playing seriously for about four or five years. The mental aspect is by far the most intriguing; a world champ like Joe Hachem can win with terrible cards by reading opponents and situations. I still haven't mastered that skill yet!"

What other celebrities have you played poker with?
"I don't play poker with celebrities; I usually just play online at home with my dog."

Have you ever auditioned for any poker-themed movies or wanted to play a poker-playing role?
"No, I've never auditioned for a poker movie. I think I'd like to, it might be the only way I'll ever make money at it!"

What was the best thing about shooting Rogue in Australia?
"Definitely getting a chance to discover Australia. The NT was mind-blowing, an amazing place with incredible landscapes, history and spirituality. Melbourne has become my favourite city in the world. It was the greatest working/life experience I've ever had on a film or at any time for that matter."

What attracted you to the script?
"I really liked the anti-hero character. Greg Mclean (writer/director) is an immense talent and a pretty great guy as well. After seeing Wolf Creek I felt compelled to work with him. Why he hired me is another matter entirely!"

What are you expecting to do whilst in Australia apart from playing poker?
"There are so many things to do in Melbourne, but staying away from the casino tables as much as possible is first on the list. I made quite a few friends while shooting Rogue so I will be seeing them as much as possible. I'm a great fan of the Aussie Open as well, so I'll try to catch a match or two. It's such a great event! I've been to all four majors, and it's by far my favourite. I've heard the players feel the same way, which doesn't surprise me one bit; Australia dominates!"

If you win in Melbourne, what do you intend to with the money?
"Seems pointless to answer that question, but if I won, or placed in the money, and that's a big IF, in a fictitious world where I have X-ray vision and can see through other players' cards, I would donate half my winnings to charity, and the other half to myself to help offset some of my recent online bad play and general lack of talent."


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