The Friday Five - A Mini Interview Every Week

Our most popular feature!  Ian answers five questions from fans and the answers are posted every Friday!  Got a question?  Send it in!  Click here for the Friday Five in German.  Click here for the Friday Five in Italian.  Click here for the Friday Five in Spanish.  Click here for the Friday Five in French. Coming soon, the Friday Five for Danish fans!

(Note:  The Friday Five is copyrighted and exclusive to www.iansomerhalder.net and is not to be copied or reproduced without written permission.)

December 16, 2005

1.  I have read that you a bigot when it comes to gays.  Tell me this is not true.  I won't believe it until I hear it from you personally.  What is your opinion on homosexuals?

I can absolutely shed some light on the subject and answer your question.  Some of what I say you hopefully will agree with whilst understanding human nature and how individuals want analyze and criticize what people do and say; misinterpretations are easily now spread like a disease with the invention of the internet.  Most of my dearest friends in the world are homosexual men and women.  Having said that I can honestly say that I have a great understanding of them and appreciate them for all that they are and give to my and the world around them.  It�s easy for someone to make me look as though I say negative things about people who are gay.  I would say that they are wrong.  Never have I said anything derogatory but instead have done nothing but support and work for organizations that support gay rights and many others.  If people believe that I am a bigot then must do as they need... Thank you for your question

2.  Did any one ever tell you, 'no way in the world you can become famous'?

Umm no actually.  I don�t think that the question was ever asked though.

3.  Do find theater more challenging than working on television and movies?

They are all challenging in their own ways.  Theater is in repetition and two-show days are tough.

4.  What's your skincare regime?  Your cheeks are always so rosy, and even without makeup your skin is crystal clear. Is it just diet or something else?

I don�t know really but I do know however that lots of water and sun block are the best things that you can do for your skin.

5.  Now that you're working off-Broadway in NYC, have you seen any shows or musicals that you would recommend?

I haven�t been able to see many but Doubt and Wicked were pretty decent.

December 9, 2005

1.  I have looked at some pictures of you and the cast of "Dog Sees God".  It really seems that you are having a lot of fun together and you get along very well.  What are you enjoying most about this experience?

The people! The work! Need I say more???

2.  What is it like to go somewhere and have paparazzi and fans follow you?

No paparazzi yet and the fans are nice!

3.  what do you thinks is more difficult: say sorry or forgive?

They can both be challenging at times, however, the aforementioned words are extremely important.

4.  What were the most useful life's lessons for you?

Trust yourself, hard work pays off for the most part, love like you have never been hurt (clich�), and people are hard to trust.

5.  What do you wish you had more time to do?

Spend time with my new nephew.
 

December 2, 2005

Coming soon!

November 25, 2005

1.  You have gained a lot of popularity since your debut on LOST.  Do you think the new fans are the ones to thank for this, or the ones who have been your fans since your modeling days?

Both, I thank each and every one of them from the bottom of my heart.

2.  Do you believe in life after death? Or do you think we die and it's all over.

I hope that something happens and it�s not just all over. It�s all debatable though.

More coming soon!
 

November 18, 2005

1.  Is being perceived as a role model, a burden or a honour?

I haven�t gotten to it yet however, will be so most happy to answer it  when it arrives. I think that individuals in film or any type of entertainment, literature and or politics they understand that they possess a certain influence by virtue or their beliefs. I�ll do my best to present my most honest examples but my beliefs are not that solid. I wouldn�t die for my beliefs, what if I�m wrong???

2.  You said that the hook necklace you were wearing at the William S. Paley Television Festival was made by a well known artist, what was his name?

George Michael [No, not that George Michael.]

3.  Have you seen any of the Harry Potter movies?  Did you like them?

I haven�t seen any of them though I truly appreciate the fact that I see kids walking around the streets of  New York with books that excite them and prompt them to read.

4.  What about your life today has become the most grueling and monotonous aspect?

The search for sanity and meaning in everything but it�s not always there...

5.  Seeing as you've answered many "Friday Five Questions", do you ever go back and read over some of the things you have said?

In the quest to remember who we are I�ve looked once and it was strange so I put a hold on the F5 reading of my own answers.

November 11, 2005

1.  Did you watch Shannon die on "Lost"?  How did you feel?  Does that mean that Boone is never coming back?

I did watch her die and only felt that all good things must come to an end.  I really couldn�t tell you but my guess would be no.

2.  As a fellow green tea lover I wondered how many cups you drink a day and what are your favourite types?

I drink between 3 to 10 cups a day, all types, but jasmine pearl is a favorite.

3.  I love the Friday 5 and think it is awesome that you do this for your fans.  Can you tell me how it got started?

Debi had a great idea and it�s still an interesting venue.

4.  If you could change one thing in the world at the moment what would it be?

Ignorance

5.  Coming soon
 

November 4, 2005

1.  Congratulations on the new play!  What character will you be playing?  What drew you to this project?

Playing Matt who was Pigpen as a kid but whom is now a germaphobic, homophobic, confused and unfortunately, so unhappy and blatantly, violently mean.  There is a catch though and reason why he is all of these things... The play is so cleverly written and it yields 8 really great roles for young actors.  Trip Cullman, our director, is the young theater director to work with in NY.  All of these elements including a magnificent cast are all the elements that will and hopefully make this play great...

2.  What was your favorite subject in school?

English and history were my favorites?

3.  Are you superstitious about anything?

Almost everything!

4.  My favorite movie of yours is Changing Hearts, is it hard for you to cry for a scene and does it take a lot of preparation?

It�s fairly easy (one will hope) if the dialogue is conducive to crying.  The words that you say, the emotion it creates. and the action of doing should get you there.

5.  You started modeling at such a young age.  Was there a point when you said to yourself, wait a minute, there must really be something unique about my looks?  Or have you always acknowledged to yourself that you have a distinctive look?

I�m not sure what I look like.  I�ve changed by the time I look in a mirror.

October 28, 2005   NEW!!!!

1 & 2 coming soon.

3.  Why is 11 your favorite number?

I couldn�t tell you if you paid me; life has these strange little things that one lives by and their reason is unbeknownst to us.

4.  Are you aware of the strange phenomenon of Harry Potter fans branding you as an older version of him (As a look-alike)?  What do you think about that idea?

I would be way more popular I assume.

5.  What is your reaction to the break in at Josh Holloway's house?

Very pissed off!

October 21, 2005

1.  Have you gone to any good concerts lately?

Bright Eyes and will go to many more in NY this winter.

2.  I am so happy that you have an area on your site designated to your fans art and are creating a space for different voices.  People need to start expanding their perspectives of the world.  At this Time, we are drowning in the shallow end of a pop culture swimming pool.  How do you feel about other spaces for public art in the community?  I wish there were more murals and less billboards.  Have you ever thought about buying a billboard to display non commercial/corporate culture?

I think that you have taken the words right of my mouth, or put them in and it�s is much appreciated.  You are correct that we are drowning, however it seems as though people (movie-goers, readers, and album buyers) are starting to get fed up with mediocrity and this, hopefully, shall start a �shift� if you will, in these areas of art and entertainment.  Independent film is making this progress in the film world, guys like Connor Oberst are starting record labels and saying screw you to companies who would want to manipulate their music so it yield a few radio hits that would essentially not be what the original voice of the song was. Bands like Clap Your Hands Say Yeah are releasing albums by themselves and selling tens of thousand of copies.  If this continues to happen maybe executives will start to revaluate what their markets are asking for and what artists are producing.  Throwing a �life jacket� to the drowning in the swimming pool or pop culture.  Thank you for this question, by the way, I like the way in which you think.

3.  Does it freak you out how people know such intimate details of your life?

It�s going to happen anyway I�d rather tell it.

4.  Do you like rollercoaster's?

They scare the hell out of me, but they are invigorating, yes.

5.  When you answer the "Friday Five", are you ever at a loss for words?  Or does responding to these questions come easily?

Sometimes after a long day of working, press, contemplating man�s existential dilemma, or just living, I can�t even speak.  It�s easy talking to you guys as fingers dance on the keys and music blares or busy travelers scurry by in an airport.

October 14, 2005

1.  If Boone hadn't died on Lost, what do you think he would be doing on the island? Would he have gone with Jack and the others to the hatch, or stayed at the beach? Or would he possibly have gone on the raft?

I think that he would have found himself in the hatch some way because he did uncover the damn thing and then he would have bit the big one.  Or he�d have gone back to the beach and remember something he read on the internet about how to make rum if you were stranded on an island and well, become Boone Bacardi?  So in short, I really don�t know that is one hell of a good question because I really can�t decide it�s just not in me anymore...

2.  What pays better - modeling or acting?

All depends on who you are. Film and TV can be very lucrative however not always. Obviously there are female models that make undeniably unbelievable amount of money.

3.  What is your favorite kind of dog?

I love them all!

4.  With Halloween coming up, I had a question. What are your three favorite scary movies?

Candy Man, The Birds, Changing Hearts

5.  Coming soon!

October 7, 2005

1.  I see you like The Beatles, what's your favorite song?

There are too many to say!  Across the Universe is definitely one of my all-time favorites though.

2.  I love your eyebrows, do you have them professionally trimmed or are they natural?  I just thought I would ask cause they really bring on your eyes and apart from your attitude towards your fans, they're your best feature.

Uh, there are professionals that pull eye brows?  Wow.  The wonderful make-up artists on set do it.  It hurts like hell I don't recommend it!

3.  Many celebrities have been breaking into the world of politics.  Would this ever be something you'd want to do in the future?

I don't and won't talk about politics but will exercise my rights to act using politics if that makes any sense...

4.  Have you ever dyed your hair?  If so, what colors?

Many times-black, brown, blond, and once it turned a beautiful green from going really black to really blond.

5.  Do you believe in the whole Mother Nature thing. I do, and I think that she is trying to get our attention. I mean, the hurricanes, earthquakes, etc. Do you think she is trying to tell us to clean up our act and the Earth?

I do I do.  Simply put, I'm not really conspiracy theorist when it comes to politics.  I'm not really ignorant when it comes to the environmental front.  If your read up and inform yourself it's fairly easy to see that the Earth goes through changes; it has and shall for the rest of time.  Having said that I think as humans, we tend to feel invincible to natural elements even though we respect them, have to take care or shelter from them, from taking flood insurance in coastal areas to earthquake reinforcements in homes near quake-probable areas.  However, the global warming aspect of nature was and is supposed to happen-just not this fast.  The rates of global temperature rises are alarming and causing worry in the scientific world community.  These hurricanes will only get worse and that is based on a known natural cycle but also due to rising water temperatures as a result of global warming.  Unfortunately for us as US citizens our government sort of refuses to acknowledge that this data is true.  Now, there are companies in the environmental business that would like to make things out to be worse than they are to profit from them, I'm not discounting them; as far as I'm concerned there will always be that problem of people taking advantage of a situation, it's just human nature.

The real problem is our life styles and how many people from lack of care and lack of education brutally harm the earth from large companies to individuals. Our American/world/human thirst for luxury and the size of our vehicles and previous lack of industrial pollution restrictions perpetuate the American dream of and gas-guzzling cars and massive consumption.  We live in a consumer-based world where our economies need massive consumption to prosper.  This is causing problems and we will and have to deal with them.  I am a culprit myself from driving a large vehicle that uses more fuel than necessary and cannot wait for the lease to be up, but our government hasn't until just now put restrictions on auto makers.  How!!!???  This has been a problem for years!!!  How are there not mandatory recycle programs in every state!!!???

Well, hopefully we will wake up and take care of our earth because it takes care of us.  Mother nature will heal herself, which most likely means getting rid of some of us and she will...
 

September 30, 2005

1.  If you don't have a problem with appearing nude then why wouldn't you pose for Playgirl?

Not yet... I mean who knows what can happen right???

2.  At school, there are always some teenagers that are rejected by the others. Did you use to go towards those "rejected"?

I was just "me" in high school.  If anything, which is my motto still, is that I didn't care what others thought/think of me... to be honest.  I was a doing the whole modeling thing at that point and caught tons of shit because of it.  If you do what you love (music, art, sports, writing, academics, etc.) who cares what or whom is deemed as "rejected," you know?  Let me tell you something- I have a bit of a theory on people who peak in high school.  It goes a bit like this: People who peak in high school i.e. are popular and "in" are much more susceptible to feeling as though the world is crashing down on them when they get to college and realize that the small world that they are used to is gone and that the real world is about skills and passion.  These people are relying on their popularity (looks, money, parental social status or how good the can throw a football) to get them by and they can ride that wave for some time.  Say what you mean, mean what you say, do what you love and love what you do.  As long as you aren't hurting anyone and obeying your parents for the most part, as well as obeying the law for the most part, who cares who is "rejected"!  I was a reject at times sure-we all are!

3.  What is your favorite number?

11

4.  What is the boldest thing that a male fan of yours has done to get your attention?

Make obscene phone calls to the point of me changing my numbers...

5.  You're constantly being asked questions by your fans, so I was wondering if you could ask your fans any question, what would it be and if it applies, why?

How do you feel about what films are being made and how do you feel about the "dumbing down" of our country?
 

September 23, 2005

1.  Congratulations to Lost on the Emmy win.  What does this mean for you though?  Do the actors involved get the same things as the producers or do they get all the statues and the glory?

Thank you very much.  It means good things for me actually.  I mean we won a Emmy!  We don't get exactly the same things as the producers except the experience and the knowledge that the work was good...

2.  You didn't attend the Emmy awards, but when Lost won, did you celebrate in any way?

I did celebrate for a bit with my friends that were there.  Actually, I didn't intend to go out that evening but after LOST won it seemed a though I had to be there with them to celebrate this time.

3.  How are you coping with the tragedies that have been happening in our country?  How do you balance them against life in Hollywood?

The tragedies are very unfortunate and I believe (as most of us will now) that it�s a true testament to how poorly the leadership in this country can get on a federal, state and local levels.  It's also unfortunate that people suffer as a result of it.

4.  Is it your experience that some people find your eyes/gaze so distracting or intense that they have trouble maintaining eye contact with you?

I don�t think so.  How can one tell?  Please let me know so that I can discover it-that would come in handy when negotiating in life.  He he he...

5.  What is the boldest thing a female has ever said and or done to get your attention?

Jumped in my car in traffic!!!

A note to everyone!
In the wake of these horrible storm(s) plural now, thank you for all of your support and caring words.  I hope that your friends and family are safe and well as yourselves. Your offers for help have been overwhelming and I thank you and my family thanks you from the bottom and top of our hearts.  I'm glad we have this opportunity to be in contact during this time of my life and open up questions that I think are fun to answer and make me contemplate life as much as everyone else.  Let�s face it: we're all figuring this thing called life out together in some strange sense and its truly refreshing to know that there are interesting, caring, thinking individuals out there going through the same crap that I'm going through. So, thank you...
Ian

 

September 16, 2005

1.  How are the recovery efforts coming with your family?  The news seems very discouraging most of the time.

It�s wildly discouraging actually.

2.  What's up with the new hair style?  Is it for a new movie?

Mostly, yes.

3.  I recently was searching the web and saw that Maggie Grace and Tom Welling are in a new movie together called The Fog.  I was wondering if you had any influence on Maggie or Tom considering that you worked with both of them and said that maybe they would make a good onscreen team?

Uh, no I didn�t actually.

4.  If you could be any super-hero who would you  be and why?

Captain Planet!  Because he�s Captain Planet!

5.  I live in New Hampshire and I read you'll be filming a movie here.  Is it true?  If so, when do you start filming and are you looking forward to coming to New England?  Because if you are, we'll be looking forward to having you here!!!

Thank you.  New England is great this time of the year and I look forward to going up.
 

September 9, 2005

1.  I was very relieved to see the message that your family made it through the hurricane okay.  How are they doing now?  How are you  doing?

I am great and my family is alive. My brother lost his house (and that sucks) but many many more lost much much more. You can always rebuild a house you can�t recreate a life...

2.  What is your reaction to everything that has happened in our country in the past few weeks?

Don�t get me started. I�ll say this- it�s sad. I hope that the federal, state and local officials (of Louisiana) along with the entire country learns from it�s very large and unacceptable mistakes.

3.  Will you participating in any of the celebrity fundraising events for the victims of Hurricane Katrina?  If so, which ones?

I would like to if I was a celebrity. I was there for a week helping my brother and family and trying to do what I could for the community.  Donate your time and money to this cause- it needs us.  Be careful when donating that your money is going to the correct place.  Keep in mind only the specific Hurricane Katrina donations are going there.  I say this because the Red Cross and the Salvation Army have not been very smart with their money in several situations and do not forget the animals!  These furry creatures can�t speak and are helpless like people in this catastrophe!!!

4.  If I had to describe you with one word it would be generous, what word would you use?

Thank you for your kind words- I would use �learning� I think.

5.  Will we be seeing you at the Emmys since Lost has 12 nominations?

No, but I wish my friends the best!

September 2, 2005

1.  Do you ever get tired of seeing your name spelled wrong all over the place?  How is it that even the people you work for manage to get it wrong?

Couldn�t really care- I know that I was there and it�s all about the work anyway.  It�s actually funny in a way, it just goes with how even professionals can be unprofessional.  Things get overlooked sometimes and you can�t fault some editor or graphic artist for being up at 4 AM trying to make a deadline who hasn�t slept in a week for adding or subtracting a letter. They�ll get it right someday, I guess.

2.  When will you be back in Louisiana again?  We miss you!

Not until after Thanksgiving, actually.  Actually I �can� wait to get there, that place is a wreck, but I wish that could be there doing more to help...

3.  I'm so sorry to hear about your brother's house.  What can we do to help him and his neighbors?

You are so very, very kind to even ask!!!  He is going to be okay and I will certainly pass along your truly sincere question.

4.  I'm so sad for your brother.  Will you be moving him to California with you?

I don�t think so.  He will be helping rebuild the area since that is what he does.  Build build build!

5.  Do you have family in Mississippi or Alabama or are they all just in Louisiana?  If you do, were they safe from the hurricane?

Every one is safe, thank you.  I am so fortunate to be able to say that and wish the best for every person whom can�t bring themselves to say those very same words because it�s not true.
 

August 26, 2005

1.  What do you do when you have a really bad day? I seem  to be having a lot of those lately!

I, uh, I get really moody.  Did I say really, really moody?  I shut out the world, have a hard time concentrating, wanting to just to go to sleep.  Then I'll see some sick kid on the street or a very elderly woman taking forty-five minutes to cross the street.  I wonder where her family is or why she�s alone and then I realize that I have about two seconds to understand that having a bad day is part of life.  These days only make one stronger by virtue of the fact that they are something to be avoided and not taken not to let, get, or have done unto you as what happened in that particular �bad� day.  After that I can reason with myself and go get a tea, grab a book and start to read and/or take a deep breath.  I understand that I�m alive and for the most part good and there are too many things to do but let a bad day spoil another hour of  this beautiful day...

2.  What is the biggest fish you have ever caught?

Blue Marlin that was roughly between 200 to 250 lbs. Not exactly sure because I let him go- don�t eat marlin and want to keep them in the water to grow.

3.  Have you had a role that really changed your life and  the way you see things?

I have to say after Anatomy of a Hate Crime (the movie wasn�t great though) I truly understood that one�s life can change in a matter of moments...

4.  How do  you feel about people stigmatizing all male models as himbos?

Well, there is a grey area here actually.  It�s said that there are stereotypes in every form of industry however, that one in particular lends itself to not having to think about too much too often.  It�s time time again also reinforced in the media though I agree when listening to a male model speak on camera or in a magazine. So with in that statement it can be said that some of the individuals leave a little bit or much to be desired; there are though, many amazing people whom you come across. To answer your question I couldn�t feel either way about it- people will always find something negative or positive to comment on a specific group or groups depending on what the read, who they are around, what their individual beliefs may be and how they feel about themselves.

5.  What magical power would you like to have, and why?

The power to control myself and my mind.  Not there yet or anywhere close.

August 19, 2005

1.  What is your reaction when magazines or websites take your responses, or parts of your responses, from the Friday Five and use them for their own articles without your knowledge?

Well, it�s a type of media, it�s online, and well, it�s public.  I guess so they can do whatever the want with it.  My reaction, however, to those (and you know who you are) who choose to only use fragments of my responses thus making me an ally or an enemy to their cause. That I believe, and one would think many are in agreement, fairly shallow and not fair- not to be negative that�s not my intention.  Lastly the end all be all of the situation is this: If you are a reader of this F5 and like or dislike a statement that you�ve read online or any other type of media that references the F5 as the source of the material, check it.  Look back at the F5 and you may see that the original answer is different than what you are reading from a journalist/administrator.  You have the option to check it�s authenticity.  :)

2.  I along with thousands of others loved you as "Hamilton" on Young Americans!  I was just wondering if you could share one of your favorite experiences from the show, whether it be a favorite episode, scene or something that happed off camera with you an the other cast members.

There were many actually, but one in particular was when Jake and Hamilton are in the shower then Finn comes in and catches us.  Well, as a joke to me and the people behind the camera, Kate Moennig and Ed Quinn deicide to do a take when Finn walks in the bathroom, Jake runs out in her towel, jumps into the arms of the handsome Finn, and lips locks in a tightly-embraced make out session. It was really funny actually and one of the last scenes on the last day of filming...

3.  About the hook necklace, is it a coincidence that Matthew Fox and Josh Holloway have a similar necklace or is there a story here?  ;)

We all do just about.  It is a very common piece of jewelry in Hawaii.  The point of the hook should always be facing the heart- to keep the energy flowing.

4.  What stores do you like to shop at?

Music stores, Williams Sonoma, and cool off-the-wall boutique shops that have strange things in them.

5.  For better or for worse, actors have a tremendous influence in our society.  Do you have any reaction or comments on Tom Cruise's recent behavior and attacks on things like post-partum depression medications?

The man is clearly determined for others to understand what has been such a great help for him and his successes.  It is however, not a very socio-responsible way to project your religious/non religious beliefs onto the public when the truth is many many people suffer from these symptoms.  At some point it just becomes distasteful, but we all have our causes and who is to blame who for wanting to express how we feel; it is a free country after all...

August 12, 2005

1.  Everyone has a day, or days, that they look back on and remember as the best day, or days, of their life. What happened on your best day/days?

Their are many times in my life that are wonderful to look back on.  Hawaii was one of those best days.  What happened?  Life!

2.  What color do you think suits your personality best, and why?

There is no one color actually and honestly, I don�t know enough colors (mixtures) to say which one is the most suitable... Blue, black, grey (silver) and orange, however, always seem to be in my closet, on my clothes, and coat my cars.  For whatever reason, black clothing and cars are super simple and need no other explanation I think.  While blue is the color of the oceans which is the most calming element on our planet.  Grey is a middle ground and seems to be easy on my eyes and mental state along with silver which proves to be stable as well for me.  Orange simply just makes me happy.  It invigorates much stirring to life passivity all around.

3.  If you could live in any period of time when would it be and why?

Not sure actually.  It�s a toss up between the the sixties and swimming in primordial soup.

4.  My friend thinks you are a wonderful person and very sincere with your fans. I agree! Have you ever met fans that were overbearing or rude and if so how did you handle it?

I haven�t run into any problems yet, it�s a nice feeling.

5.  Not many actors would take the time to do something like this, why do you?

Why would you take the time to ask me?  I think that�s it�s quite possibly the same concept.  I love to hear what you think and what you care to know.  You, as fans give me the ability to do what I do and there is something to be said for that little detail.

August 5, 2005

1.  This will sound a really stupid question but has LOST made even the slightest bit nervous of planes? If not, you are a brave man!!

Much air travel can make you a bit jumpy.  Uh, actually this may sound strange but when I look down over water I feel as though I�ve lived it a bit (I don�t want to in life this is not a jinx hopefully) would sort of know what to expect and to survive.

2.  Will you be on Season 2 of Lost?

I get in trouble every time I talk about it so I�ll take the 5th on this one... Maybe I�d like to though.

3.  Firstly, I think you are a phenomenal actor.  Your work never ceases to amaze me and put a smile on my face.  And I wish you nothing but happiness and success.  Also, I think you are absolutely beautiful.  I've been wondering though, what did you look like when you were little?  Would you mind sharing a picture?  If not, that's ok.  :)  I was just wondering if you were as beautiful then as you are now.  :)

I will most certainly send a photo!

4.  Are you jealous boyfriend?

Jealousy is a waste of time!


5.  Obviously, you are very good looking.....You don't come across as 'knowing it', though.  As the youngest of six children, my question is about siblings.....I have read interviews and postings where you make reference to your sister.  Is she your only sibling?  If so, I'm sure she is very beautiful having the Somerhalder genes.....but was/is she ever intimidated by having such a good-looking brother?  I only ask because we come from a very small town and we aren't movie stars; but don't look like toads in a blender either......I just know all the time, I hear"Oh your brother is soooooo hot!!"  I just wondered if your sister gets that a lot and if she is continually being asked to hook you up with one of her friends?

I have a brother as well and the two of them are my best friends.  You may not hear much about them much because I�m very protective of my family.  I�ve hooked up with both my sister's and my brother�s friends.   It�s fun but, not necessarily a good habit... :)
 

July 29, 2005

1.  How did you like working with David LaChapelle shooting the Lost promo?  When was it filmed?

He is great to work with.  Not only is the man incredibly talented and visual, but he creates an environment that�s very conducive to creativity.  He flew in on a helicopter to set (only 50 miles from his hotel) and had a great catering tent and bar set up for the actors!

2.  Who is your favorite young actor today, and why?

I don�t have a favorite it changes daily.  Who�s yours?

3.  How did you get into acting from modeling?

After you realize that it�s time for something else.

4.  You've said you auditioned for Lord of the Rings, which character?

I believe that it was Frodo, if I�m not mistaken.

5.  How did your parents react to Boone's death on Lost?  I know your an actor and all, but as a parent I would think it would be hard to watch my child "die" in any situation.  Did you talk to your parents about it at all?  How did they feel after watching the episode?

My parents are fairly into the whole character thing however, needless to say that it wasn�t comfortable to watch their son die on TV.

A QUICK NOTE TO EVERYONE:
Thank you for your patience, meaning you send questions I answer them... You sent your questions and I haven�t been able to answer them in he timely fashion in which you pressed that send or submit button. It still, after a couple of years now, great to be a part of this and I have to be honest there are a few of the above question that I wanted to go into more detail but didn�t have time. Several of the questions I asked Debi to hold off until next week so that they could have my full and undivided attention because there were elements of answers that I really want people to know; I sent them once but however got lost in cyberspace...
Thank you all again and have a great weekend!
Ian

July 22, 2005

1.  Where did you get the hook necklace you were wearing at the William S. Paley Television Festival on March 12, 2005?

It�s an ancient Hawaiian fishing hook made from fossilized walrus tusk made by a very well know artisan.  The hook always faces the heart-it keeps the energy flowing while you wear it.

2.  What is it like to be, Ian Somerhalder?

Insane!

3.  Do you think it's funny how many people ask you what kind of girl you are attracted to?

I don�t because it a fairly standard question, I think.  Meaning, it�s sociologically acceptable to have a �type� of person; I just like to find beauty in everyone and I�ve been attracted and seriously attracted to people whom I didn�t think that I would be.

4.  What ever happened with Living Off Interest and the screenplay you wrote?  Will we see those projects?

You will see these projects trust me, because I start working on one of them Tuesday.  Ryan Detlefs, my best friend and writing partner for years, and myself will start a new script in just a few days!  I really look forward to doing this.  :)

5.  I am not one for looking too much into the past, as I think everything in life happens for a reason, but I was just wondering If you could go back and make one of your roles in any show or movie that you have done, and make it a role that you could have done longer or explored more which one would it be?

Every one-I would go back to every one and want to live more...

July 15, 2005

1.  If you had to choose between two roles, one would be a very handsome, very likeable guy (much like yourself ;) ) and the other one would be equally attractive but evil to the bone (mass murderer, rapist, complete asshole... you pick), which character would you prefer to portray?  Oh, and by the way, did you know that your first name is being used in the English- German online dictionary LEO to explain the word "likeable"?

Well, here�s the thing, sometimes it�s great to be the charming likable guy that we can all like and want to be associated with.  At the same time a character with a bizarre mind and horribly unethical and illegal actions can be interesting. Does it strike you as odd that sometimes the villain is sometimes more interesting than the hero? Character wise sometimes it�s more interesting to play someone battling his thirst for wrong and find a path to understanding it.

2.  What did you do over the 4th of July?  Did you do any celebrating of any kind since you weren't in the states?

I didn�t really get to celebrate, I was on set in Romania.

3.  What was your favorite on-screen kiss?

Maggie Grace, of course!  Less the garlic that she put in her mouth on the last take of that scene though.

4.  What's the funniest thing which you have autographed?

Breasts are always fun and interesting situations.  :)

5.  Are you and do you feel "safe" in Romania considering the US being at war and other terrorist activities like the recent London bombings?

Surprisingly it felt extremely safe there. There really wasn�t even a hint that these things were happening in the world.

July 8, 2005

1.  You claim that you miss everything about your childhood.  Didn't you ever have any bad times in school, or with bullies?  Please elaborate!

2.  I've noticed that every now and then, Ian's name is used directly in his answers. Are you talking in third person or is someone else adding comments to your responses?

No, it�s me, Ian.  Talking in the third person makes it fun for me.

3.  I'm not aware how many people actually ask anyone, but how was your day?

GREAT thank you. How was yours?

4.  In Life As A House were you supposed to be prostitute (if that's what its called in this case) also?

Well actually I was the pimp! Well, business man as Irwin Winkler put it...

5.  What's your fave season ,summer, winter, spring or autumn and why?

The fall and spring times are always  nice times of the year, the air is new and everyone can feel it. I really enjoy them.

July 1, 2005

1.  The other day, I came across a very odd piece of information. It was that your relationship with Nicky Hilton was fake and that at the time you were living with "your boyfriend, writer David Kalstein." How and why did something so obviously ridiculous come about? It's one of the strangest rumors I've ever read!

It's sounds fairly normal to me. Uh, why you ask? Well, it's textbook hoopla that someone just felt the need to put out there into the universe for you and myself to have to waste time asking and answering... Dave Kalstein is not only one of my close friends (close meaning people that I've been through much with and still trust) but a talented writer and director. We met in New York when I asked for meeting to sign a deal to produce a play which he wrote. Me moved to LA shortly after and my business partner and myself, along with Dave, started to redevelop his screen play in which we acquired rights to.
So in short, Nicky and I for what ever reasons were" actually" together. I get a kick out of rumors don't you?:)

2.  How would you describe your career from YA to Lost?

MUCH MUCH MUCH MUCH MUCH MUCH MUCH MUCH MUCH BETTER! Okay seriously, each project lends itself to being one more rung up on the ladder that one is climbing. YA and LOST both have given me some really great opportunities.

3.  What's the longest relationship you have had (meaning time) and what are you attracted to the most: brunettes or blondes?

Three years.  I couldn't tell you what type is most attractive-aren't they all in some way?

4.  I'm just wondering if you read comics? Because I think you would be perfect playing Gambit from X-Men.

I read my first comic book in Hawaii that Mat Fox gave me. It was great!  I appreciate the vote of confidence, but Ian couldn't be more wrong for the Gambit role-it's Josh Holloway up and down to a T.

5.  Do you know sign language?

Unfortunately, I do not and wish that I did...

June 24, 2005

1.  Really superficial question... But I have been wondering if your weight really fluctuates as much as it appears in your photos? One moment you look incredibly buff and then a bit on the skinny side. If yes, any special reason, like a fast metabolism, stress etc?

Ha ha, the never-ending battle of the metabolism/stress thing.  Yes, to answer your question, the metabolic rate in which my body runs unfortunately makes for a rollercoaster of weight loss and gain.  I'm not complaining, merely stating; I only saying this because many say it's a blessing.  I think we just deal with and make the best of what we have...

2.  In job interviews, I often ask my candidates to describe what is their best quality and what is their worst?  What would you say yours are?

Best- Very loving- care for much and many.
Worst- Neurotic as hell

3.  What do you do for fun on your down time in Romania?

Work.

4.  Have you ever watched Kristen Bell's series "Veronica Mars?" Did she watch "Lost?"

I have watched an episode and it's good.  She's great!  Not sure if she's watched LOST or not I'll ask her.  Let's take a moment to realize exactly how amazing Kristen Bell actually is, shall we?  Wildly talented? Check.  Ridiculously funny and charming?  Check.  Intelligent and well read?  Check.  Flawlessly beautiful?  Check.  Uh, watch the show and you'll see (unless we're in the same time slot...:) ) That was a joke- sort of, I think.

5.  Do you support or are you involved with any charities?  How so?

I am involved in some. I support Oceana and wish that every one would, as well as Sloan Kettering, the most amazing place in the world.  Also, my other favorite is SPCA.  These people, like at Oceana and Sloan Kettering are working to make this world better through hard work and compassion.  The tsunami relief is a must as well. 

Please I beg you to check out these web sites and really, just for a second, think how you can actually make a difference.  I'm not here to be "one of those guys" nor will I blatantly use this web site to solicit my beliefs, but you asked me which charities I support and these are important in my world-yours, too. How you ask?  Cancer affects us all it doesn't discriminate, our waters (oceans/seas/lakes/and rivers) are extremely important to all life on this planet as we know it and they are being destroyed. Finally, animals make our lives fuller than we can ever imagine and they should be protected...

June 17, 2005

1. You say that you hate the word celebrity.   Doesn't it make you feel good that you are famous, which makes you a celebrity?   If not, please explain.

2.  The cast members of Lost have said that the character that night's episode centers on is the host for that night's get-together. Because your episode was about both you and Shannon, which one of you hosted the night?

3.  I saw in the magazine In Style, and it said that you showed up "fashionably late in your Black SUV" to Evy's. Do you still have it? Or did you leave it in Hawaii since you flew to Romania?

5.  Congratulations on your niece or nephew to be!  Do you have any other children in your life (not necessarily your own) or will this be the first baby for you to carry around pictures of?  Do you plan to be the cool uncle or the completely silly uncle?

Thank you for one.

Secondly there is a beautiful baby that I rarely get to see that's extremely important to me.  However, my sister's baby is the first in my family and let's just say that Ian plans on being the best uncle on the damn planet.  This child (as with any child in my life) has no idea the love, adoration and utter happiness that shall be showered upon her/him.

 

June 10, 2005

An extra question to clarify something:  Does Ian have a myspace.com account?

NO!  I have no interest in myspace!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  [Anyone posting on myspace.com as Ian is an IMPOSTER!]

1.  With all of the traveling, don't you ever get homesick?  What do you do when you get homesick?

I, haven't gotten homesick in a while actually. I obviously miss my family, my sister is going to have a baby soon which is just the most amazing thing in the world.  Really I'd rather just hang around her and her husband, watching the tummy grow-I'll do that soon.  Uh, to be truthful I miss Hawaii and my life there.  So, upon missing the "Island" the endless photos get me through days for the remembrance of a place so perfect only will yield a smile...

2.  What kind of kitchen dishes do you have?  Like the type or pattern?

There aren't any dishes left after the LA move to Hawaii, threw them out. Hawaii back to LA, threw them out.  After finding my new house in Venice I'll be sure to find some cool dishes... The Le Creuset cookware is the only thing left that I can't wait to cook with but it's in storage. I highly recommend it!

3.  What is your feeling/reaction about the recent paparazzi problems (i.e., car chases, stalking, etc).  Do you feel they are just doing their job or are things out of control and something needs to be done?  Have you had any problems with the paparazzi?

I've never had any problems I'm not famous, but I've seen and heard of some of the craziness that ensues and it's an interesting question. Celebrities (yuck I hate that word) bitch and moan about their status (publicly) and how people follow them, however it's the nature of being well know and most marvel in it. The publicity market is fuc!@# due to the fact that producers look at this excessive exposure as a procurer of high box office sales and would rather hire and actor that may not be that great but has a presence in the public. That my friends is sad...

4.  Do you ever travel around the country and make scheduled appearances for your fans?  If so, have you, or are you planning on coming to Dallas so I could see you?

I will be doing it with LOST.  Most the cast of LOST of are. Yes, I look forward to it.

5.  When you get done working for the day, and get home.  Are you a stay in for the night, or go out on the town kind of person?

June 3, 2005

1.  In regards to last week's question about censoring yourself - do you censor yourself just to the press or here on the Friday Five, too?

Yes, I do censor myself- I must at times.  I used to not really censor myself on the F5... It seems as though, however, by being on a "Network" TV show that things are a bit cleaner than that of a say Rules Of Attraction.  I guess what I'm trying to relay is, I've found (through what little experience I actually have) that one can say what's on one's mind without having to be so damn cerebral about everything.  Things have gotten simpler in my life yet more complex at the same time (never mind the oxymoron within the statement please) but somewhere in the middle lies the truth. My truth-so to each his own my friends...

2.  What does your publicist think of the Friday Five and the rather unique situation you and Debi have here?   Did you even have a publicist when the Friday Five started?

3.  You've commented about being misquoted by the press before, do you ever worry that they will start taking parts of your Friday Five answers and using them in other places and therefore altering their meaning?

4.  In my fandom experiences, actors have their official sites and fans have their fansites.  I've never seen anything like this.  How did you end up becoming so involved in a fansite?

May 27, 2005

1.  What did you think of the season finale of Lost?

3.  Were you the only person to audition for the part of Boone or were the more?

To be honest, I'm sure that other people read for the role but JJ and Damon didn't test anyone else at the studio or the network besides myself for the hefty role of the dearly-departed Boone.  This scenario is somewhat rare due the fact that the studio and network will usually always want several choices.  JJ believed from the beginning and apparently said "this the guy that I want."  In a screening room that resembles a small theater at ABC (and trust me a network test is a very intense room to be in) the silence was perfect so that concentration was never broken.  By that time JJ and myself had been in several meetings together for the role with Damon so those guys were on my team, my champions on the project, so needless to say that trust and comfort yields a fearlessness in you that allows you to live an organic moment in an artificial environment.

The last part of the test was scene with Boone and Sawyer (was never put into the final draft of the pilot) in which Boone was digging for something in the sand while Sawyer sat smoking (of course) watching Boone only to make some smart-ass comment (of course) while Boone calmly and articulately put Sawyer in his place.

I'll never forget, when that scene was done I literally thought that I was on a beach somewhere talking to this guy and upon realizing that it was indeed a room; there was more silence. I looked up at JJ and he simply said to the executives behind him- "As I live and breathe ladies and gentlemen, Ian Somerhalder."
For that one moment and many, many more that followed, I thank you Mr.Abrams...

4.  Who said your favorite quote from last week and is it part of a larger text?

Thank you for your question.  My "team" as we call it, are so intelligent, well respected, and for lack of better words, much smarter than I, and that's why they were hired.  When they speak, Ian listens very carefully; so yes, they indeed have much to say about how I present myself in a publicity situation. Trust me what I do isn't always good and there is a comment (constructive criticism) about adjusting and not making the same mistake twice.  My words unfortunately (misconstrued by very angry journalists) have bitten me in my ass several times.  Censorship is most definitely needed as well as practiced every day.

May 20, 2005

1.  What can you tell us about Pulse?

IMDB:  A group of college students who discover that a computer hacker friend of theirs unwittingly pirated a strange wireless signal that opened a doorway for a terrifying evil to cross over into the world. As it spreads, everyone in its path is consumed, and the students must race to find a way to stop it.


IAN:  It's based on the Japanese film �Kairo (Circuit)� about a series of strange incidents that start to arise from what ends up being ghosts coming through the Internet.  Our version will be in 2006 and what our fearless leader/director Jim Sonzero along with �The� Mr. Bob Weinstein, Kristen Bell and myself believe is a metaphor for what and how technology is not bringing the world together as individuals but actually isolating us.  The byproduct?  A lonesomeness that can and may become a strain of social degradation.  In the end, I believe its a love story about two people who find each other in the insanity that we call our world...

2.  Fans can be pretty creative with gifts for their favorite stars.  While they are all cool, are there are any gifts you've gotten that stand out in your mind as "wow" or really touching?  What were they?

These gifts are personal but I've gotten the best ones for our own Debi Hutchins-a most generous and thoughtful person.  It's really great to have gotten gifts from fans, you all have made and continue to make my life a dream, so for that I sincerely thank you.

3.  Do you have any artistic talent, like drawing or painting?

I fuc!@#$ wish!

4.  How is Romania?  Are you homesick yet?

Romania is spectacular!  I truly dig this place and will explore it until I must leave.  Homesick?  My home is Romania for now-gave up the place in Hawaii and in LA. I haven't had time to buy a house in California after LOST!!!  Viva Bucharest!

5.  What was your favorite movie as a child?

The Wizard of OZ, ET and Pink Floyd The Wall

May 13, 2005

1.  What was your favorite photo shoot that you ever did in your modeling career?

There were two that really stand out; one was Versace a long time ago and a shoot in Mexico with Ken Browar.  Versace was my first campaign as an adult (meaning it was after modeling when I was 10-13) at 16.  It was shot in Massachusetts with Bruce Weber and basically kicked off, what I guess for lack of better words, this �journey� if you will... It was that week or so that would introduce me to the individuals whom I would be seeing, traveling with, partying with and doing some very crazy not-so-legal activities in the company of over the coming years.

Ken Browar arranged a shoot in Mexico with me and a German girl, a human of unspeakable beauty who spoke more than three languages fluently, but just happened to be engaged-or I would most likely be married by now.  Ken, being one my best friends on the planet and a mentor is always prepared; shooting a travel magazine so that we not only had a wonderful guide but world renowned food critic (who was an asshole but knew everything about the food and where to go) that got us into what must have been every glorious restaurant in this part of the world.  While shooting and learning about this area of the country, we venture up a steep mountain to a magical place where the monarch butterflies migrate every year.  Hiking into the some enchanted forest at an elevation I couldn't tell you, but high, you find yourself on a grassy plain asking yourself �where are the damn butterflies?�  Upon turning around I saw and will never forget, the entire tree line was moving.  So many butterflies that the branches sagged-imagine that!  You could walk into the trees and be greeted by thousands of them, dancing all over you; an unbelievable experience!

2.  I was wondering if you have achieved all your goals in life. I mean, for other people it might seem like you have everything you could want. Is there anything missing in your life?

We all have many things in which we are working for, of course, but nothing is �missing� I don�t think right now.  Life is too busy right now to actually stop and see what's missing.  As we know it's great to achieve goals and it seems to have happened much in my life but only, I think, because of the people in my life...

3.  Do you have a favorite quote?  What is it?

Everything loved is the centre of the universe.

4.  What are your favorite places in New York?

There are too many places but the Guggenheim, MOCA, and Central Park are great.  I can also be very happy just cruising down a quaint street in the East village...

5.  How do we know it's really Ian answering these questions?  [I am amazed it took this long for someone to submit that as a F5 question!  I get asked that all the time, but no one has ever actually submitted it.]

That's a good question!  Uh, well cause its me, damnit!
 

May 6, 2005

1.  Do you ever look around at the Hollywood life and all the money they waste on things like parties and think "this is nuts, this money could do so much good in school systems or other places and here we are wasting it"?

I couldn�t even begin to explain how much if I tried...  It�s usually absurd the amount of $ that's wasted in Hollywood-but also all over the country, not just there...

2.  Do you find yourself feeling very alone now even though you're surrounded by people?

Extremely.  It�s not that I don�t want to expound on the subject however, I wouldn�t want to sound odd or let anyone know what makes me feel out of place...

3.  Are you and Maggie Grace dating?

No, but that�d be interesting.  What makes you ask?

4.  Is there a role that you ever regretted turning down?

NOPE thank goodness!

5.  In an older FF, you say you have a tattoo, and that you planned to get it covered up with something else eventually.  Do you still have it or did you get it covered?  Either way, what is it a tattoo of?

It�s a tattoo of a cross and I�m covering it with the symbol of Jupiter- it rules Sagittarius.
 

April 29, 2005

1.  What is/was your most beloved childhood toy?

My Red Rider BB gun.  However, I grew up in the country and would I give a child (I mean 6 to 9 year old) a gun?  Absolutely, with out a doubt, hell no!
 
2.  Do you believe there is intelligent life on other planets (or possibly other galaxies)?

I do and we are crazy if we believe otherwise.
 
3.  Will you be going back to Hawaii?

I will never stop going to the islands, they�re a part of me.
 
4.  Does your "straight-forwardness" ever annoy or impress the media? And do they sometimes annoy you?

YeS and YeS...
 
5.  Do you play chess, mah jongg, poker, etc...?  Would you ever play in a celebrity poker tournament?

Chess is one of my favorite games actually, but the likelihood of me getting to play lately is, for lack of better words, not fuc!@#$ happening.  I want to play celebrity poker, kick ass and to give the money to Sloan Kettering!
 

April 22, 2005

1.  What was it like your last day on the set of Lost?

Well, it was interesting... There were several �last days� I guess; meaning the one where the death scene took place and the last day of shooting to wrap the season.

The day in that Boone died was a long and exacerbating simply because of the content and emotion, I�ll be the first to say. Matt Fox and I (but especially him) went through the ringer that day.  I couldn�t wait to get it done but wanted to pay extremely close attention to the way in which that scene played out.  There�s a bit of difficulty associated with weaving the threads of life into text when technical and emotional subtlety are key.  Technical aspects have to to be interlaced with reality and emotion all at the same time.  We had a medical technician there to guide me in the right direction of how a human would react physically to those types of injuries; spanning from the collapsing of a lung to the moment of lucidity before someone dies.  We got through but I think of it much...

2.   Was your phone number in Paris Hilton's sidekick when it was hacked into and if so, did you get any crazy calls?

I didn�t- thank you Paris.  

3.  It was reported that you signed a one-year talent deal with ABC and Touchstone TV. What exactly does that entail?

It entails several things-one being that ABC/Touchstone still wants to be in business which is a very good thing for me and two maybe I can find a project which can really allow me to work hard and with maybe, just maybe, some of my own collaboration...

4. Do you ever ride horses anymore, or is it an old hobby that you've since grown apart from?

I still really, really enjoy it but unfortunately it�s had to take a back seat to all of the insanity which has been happening lately.
 
5.  What sort of horses/training were you involved with while growing up?

It was strictly western!  While I do enjoy the idea and structure of English riding/showing/jumping, but truly just love to be in a big cozy western saddle on a trail watching the sunset. I used to enjoy penning cattle and barrel racing but for some reason can�t do it anymore.  Another thing that was so much fun, was Civil War reenacting- now that is one hell of a ride.
 

April 15, 2005

1.  Do you have any nicknames?

Actually, not really.  I�m sorry to disappoint.

2.  Have you ever broken any bones?

No!!! (knock on wood)

3.  Are there any distinct scents that remind you of certain people or memories? If so, would you mind sharing them?

Uh, there are most definitely some fragrances that remind me of certain people, yes.  I will say this, you know who you are and how you smell...

4.  Online journals or 'blogs' are huge among the under 30 crowd. Many actors, directors, musicians and other celebs have gotten on to the blog bandwagon. Have you ever considered getting your own? If not, have you read other people's journals?

To be honest (as I always am) I did think about it once after shooting ROA after seeing and reading Roger Avary�s every night.  However, I noticed that I got people in trouble (myself included) and that Ian never wants to be involved in.

5.  If you had a choice, what would you have had Boone say to Shannon before passing?

You were great in bed!
 

April 8, 2005

1.  Is Boone really dead?  I'll have to stop watching Lost if he is, you're my favorite actor on the show.  Please say they'll find a way to include him next season!

Boone. Is. Really. Dead.  Thank you for your kind and most-flattering words.  You have to keep watching the show though, come on; what else are you going to watch???

2.  You seemed pretty happy living in Hawaii.   Where will you move to now?  What will you miss the most about Hawaii?

I�m truly beyond happy in Hawaii, actually.  :)  Where ever my next location is and then to the next and so on.  Everything.  I�m not just typing that because I�m lazy... I�m going to literally miss everything about this place!

3.  Why did they have to kill of Boone?  He was my favorite character!  Why couldn't it have been someone else?

Well, I asked that very same question myself when I found out.  However, all of us (the actors) knew that the possibility wasn�t even a little, but a great deal, inevitable that someone, if not many of us, will go.  Carlton said it perfectly, �It was a narrative imperative� and JJ put it as it would be illogical for these people to be stranded on this island with no casualties.

Thank you!  It was simply Boone�s time...

4.  Did you have any input into the final death scene of your character?

Only in the manner in which it was played.

5.  Is it true you wanted to leave the show because you weren't getting enough screen time?

No and yes.  First and foremost, let�s get the record straight-I never said those words to anyone, that was a over-zealous journalist thing.  I wanted to stay in Hawaii for another year, don�t get me wrong; it�s hard though when your character becomes peripheral.  I�m not upset or bitter about it, it�s just a fact.  I�m super grateful to have had this glorious experience here on this show. Thank you Damon and JJ!!!

April 1, 2005

1.  What do you think of The L Word?  Have you ever watched it?

I�ve seen the pilot and I thought it was interesting. Kate was good in it and that�s all that matters to me...

2.  Do you have any favorite pro sports teams?

Spain and Brazil. Soccer, of course

3.  What are the top 5 foods/items on your grocery list each week?

Eggs (organic) Or Eggology (the genius egg whites already separated)
Jasmine Dragon Pearl green tea
soymilk (organic)
Puffins
Juice (organic)

4.  I have heard about Louisiana being full of ghost stories and the supernatural, do you have any stories/encounters to tell us about? Does that kind of stuff scare you, were there any times you just had to leave the lamp on?

Actually, no lamps.  There have been times back on the bayou in which a fog rolls around it looks like a horror movie and then a snake falls into your canoe.  Yeah, to say the least, it can be extremely creepy...

5.  Do you have new projects lined up?

Yes, fortunately several.

March 25, 2005

1.  Have your ever worked for the theatre?  In your opinion, do you think it's more difficult to perform on stage or in front of a camera?

I have indeed.  They clearly both have their own challenging qualities about them.  Theater has the instant gratitude (or lack there of) from the audience with only one shot to experience those moments live in front of a breathing crowd.  A camera however, gives you multiple chances to create without immediate judgment...

2.  Which Lost episode has been your favorite to do?  Do you have a favorite scene, too?

To be honest, I think that the Boone/Shannon and the Hurley episodes are great.  My favorite scene is the moment in which Sawyer tells Jack that he met his father in Sydney.  What  a beautiful moment for Jack!

3.  How do you go about meeting new people?  Have any of the fans who approached you turned out to be one of your good friends now?

I haven�t met anyone new in a while and basically until I get to the next set abroad I most likely won�t... 

Debi Hutchins...

4.  After ROA you've said you'll never kiss another guy in a movie again, and I'm wondering why not?  Is it really such a big deal?  Seann William Scott does it in almost every movie he made, such as many other straight actors.  Would you really turn down the role only because of that?  (I'm asking this because I think the coolest thing about acting is that you can do the things you couldn't/wouldn't/shouldn't do in real life, so an actor shouldn't limit himself in any way.)

I appreciate your case about not limiting oneself and to be honest, I try not to compare myself to any other actors and their choices.  You ask is it really a big deal?  It�s not such a big deal actually but I�ve noticed (from experience) it�s not me whom can�t handle it- it�s the audience.  Seann William Scott didn�t get all of the backlash that I received consequently, that was completely unjustified, by fans and outraged men saying that I was �over compensating� and making anti-gay remarks.  However, I wasn�t and those very close to me whom are gay were visibly upset at the way this whole thing happened.  So, please think about your question and know that I�d never make a disrespectful remark about anyone (especially in public) about ones sexual preference and choose not to spend time deflecting misperceived remarks about me from individuals whom haven�t the foggiest idea of who I really am.  Listen, it�s invariably difficult to know someone from reading a page in a magazine.  They must always remember that journalist have agendas.  

5.  The Enquirer article mentioned that you had a good friend pass away recently.  I'm very sorry for your loss.  I'm curious though, is that the reason there were several episodes without Boone?  Were you taking time off to be with your friend?

Thank you for your kind words.  I wish that I could say that was the case for Boone�s absence, but it wasn�t.
 

March 18, 2005

1.  Is there any truth to the article the National Enquirer ran on April 4th?

One never knows on �LOST.�

2.  How did the cast of Lost react when they found out who was being killed off?

We were disappointed I must say. It�s hard when you become so close to a group of people and to know that they won�t be on set anymore is heartbreaking.  However, it's the beauty of this show, by virtue of it�s setting, (a dangerous island) as JJ puts it, it�s only logical that people do indeed die.

3.  What was your reaction when you found out who was being killed off?

Answered in the above question...

4.  When you meet someone what is the first thing you look for, which quality in a friend do you feel is most important?

Honesty, if someone is comfortable with looking you in the eye; it's truly a simple way to gauge how honest they are.

5.  What were your experiences with working with Kevin Kline, I'm curious to know whether he's hard to work with?

I had no expectations about him actually.  The man�s credits speak for themselves and his demeanor is one of a happy man.  He�s a genius, I must say, and a dream to work with...

March 11, 2005

1.  What is your favorite type of pizza?

There is a place in NYC city called Two Boots - for the boot of Italy and the boot of Louisiana.  It�s a Cajun crust, Bayou Beast!

2.  Favorite kind of cookies?

Good ole chocolate chip.

3. Favorite candy?

Chocolate.

4. Favorite flavor ice cream?

Home made Italian coffee-chocolate ice cream from a small little restaurant in LA call Dan Tana's.

5. Favorite breakfast?

Huge!  All breakfast stuff is great - best meal of the day.  Now one could sound really cool, sensitive and sophisticated by describing how to prepare everything, but I'll spare us all valuable time of our lives in which we could be reading something worth reading.  I guess in short, I'm not that interesting when it comes to breakfast; let's just say that breakfast (if you are going to have it) is best in bed...

March 4, 2005

1.  Do you know why the Lost producers dropped the storyline of Boone being schizophrenic?  I'm assuming it's completely out of the picture now since your character stopped wearing his medic alert necklace and bracelet. I think it would have been really great!

I didn�t know that, thank you for that little tid bit.  I will inquire further about the story line.

2.  Will you be staying in Hawaii once the show goes on hiatus?  Do you have any summer projects lined up yet?

I will not be here for it although that is a wish of mine.  However, doing a cool movie somewhere else will be equally as pleasant.  Not sure what project actually at this time but you�ll be the first to know.

3.  Being a fellow Radiohead lover, I was very excited to see that you hold Thom Yorke in such high esteem. What other bands/artists do you count among your favourites Incidentally, do you like The Mars Volta?

Not that familiar with Mars Volta, I�ll be sure to check it out.  I really like, The Fourtet, Monument to Masses, Wilco, The Verve (old stuff before Urban Hymns) [Ah!  Urban Hymns is my favorite!] and many many more- Air, Interpol, The Cure... I�m gonna stop now.  Glad that you�re a fan because Radiohead is most likely the best band in the world...

4.  You were featured in Russian Elle for a Russian men's store called Caligula.  Have you ever been to Russia?

Negative- plan to go this summer though.

5.  When speaking about women, what kind of things are "turn-offs"?

Stupidity, lack of drive and compassion and passion- too much self obsession and not enough knowledge of the world around them.

February 25, 2005

1.  You mentioned once before that you know/knew Tom Welling and Michael Rosenbaum outside of "Smallville."  You've since explained your association with Tom, but what about Mike?  How well do you know him, and do you keep in touch with either of them now?

I think that he is a neat guy.  He's a great deal of fun and we see each other periodically around LA or in NY for Upfronts every year.

2.  Who do you find to be the most intriguing character on Lost?

LOCKE who else...

3.  How well do you relate to Boone?

Too much sometimes and then others not IN THE LEAST.

4.  These days age doesn't seem to matter, older women dating younger men, men dating much younger women, and so on. Do you believe that age is a factor in the world today?  What would be the oldest and youngest you would "see" someone?

It's all relative... people whom are young may be highly evolved and mature while some one older may appear to be immature.  It's all specific to the individual I guess.  I would safely say that I am usually with someone my age or older.  It's a generation thing one would assume; cultural references can bring people together more-absence of that can do the opposite.

5.  What was your first reaction when you met your cast mates for Lost and did you have any of those weird instant connections with any of them?

I did actually-instant.  We all knew that we're on an island and the bond was strong from the get go.
 

February 18, 2005

1.  What does your schedule consist of Monday to Sunday?  Do you have much time for yourself?  With all that must be on your mind, do you have trouble sleeping at night?

I've calmed down considerably actually.  I didn't work as much as I am now but yes, I have time to myself but I didn't there for a while.  You have to make and effort to do things for yourself.

2.  Do you get scripts sent to you by writers often?

Every day.
 
3. Besides Lost, what TV shows are your favorites (whether they are currently airing or not)?

Sopranos
History Channel shows
Shark Week
Inside the Actors Studio

4.  What are your plans for when Lost goes on hiatus?

Movies, movies, movies!

5.  What was your reaction when you heard from the studio you were cast for LOST? Did you take it in all at once, or only realize later- Wow! I got, I really got it! Or was it mild tachycardia?

Uh, well it was a nice feeling and I was very happy.  It was work to get the show, so the time you are waiting to get it you become a bit numb to the anticipation...
 

February 11, 2005

1.  What is the story behind this picture?  Was it a scene from the show that was cut or something else?  If it was a cut scene, could you please tell us more about it?  I've always thought YA ended on a strange  note.

I believe that it was the scene when Jake tells Hamilton that she�s going to NY.  That or Kate and I were just making out on set....  Kidding!  It was in a take or a rehearsal and it was all YA stuff.

2.  What was it like working with Hayden Christensen? Did he every try to  use the Jedi mind trick on you?

I don�t think that Hayden had perfected it yet.  He's a great guy and I look forward to hanging out with him more when I get back to LA for the summer break.

3.  Were you at Mardi Gras this year?  I heard on a local radio station that you were going to be  there.  Did you have a good time?

Unfortunately, I was unable to go-but I will (mark my words) be there next year!

4.  Valentine's Day is coming up and I know it's a very commercial holiday and all, but...are you sending any cards? Do you expect to receive anything - like, cards from fans or friends?

I�m not the biggest fan of the holiday to be honest-not sending cards.  I will, however (if I�m with a girl), do something with her or with a group of friends.

5.  Do you think most people who become actors do it for the love of acting or for the obvious perks of the profession for a successful actor, in other words do you think they would want to set themselves up for disappointment in such a fickle business for minimum wage?

It�s truly such a tough question.  I would hope that people would do it for the love of the art.  There are, at certain levels, large financial rewards that yes, people tend to get caught up in it.  It can actually be a sad scenario to see.  Would I do it for minimum wage?  Absolutely, I would have paid to do LAAH or ROA...

February 4, 2005

1.  When you first started modeling and traveling, was it a bit of a culture shock for you?  How would you describe the difference between Europe and the US?

It all sort of melts into one now, I think.  Was it a culture shock?  No.  Different?  Yes, very.  Europe has a wonderful sense of history and placement, meaning everything there physically has had it�s place for centuries while here it�s new and slightly extreme and large.  Across the pond they take life a bit slower than we typically do in America and that makes for a nice pace of life.

2.  The fishing here in Ireland is great, have your ever visited our lovely country?

I am going this summer and can�t wait.  See you there!!!  Castles, Guinness, and Irish girls - you can bet I�ll be fine.

3.  I loved Young Americans, did you enjoy your time on the show and do you still keep in touch with the other cast members?

I did enjoy my time there.  It was truly an eye-opening experience and yes, I still talk to the producers - they are my good friends.  Haven�t spoken to much of the cast lately, but it�s always so lovely to see Kate Moennig.

4.  What has been the most life altering experience you've ever had?

LOST

5.  If you could spend a whole day with anyone in the world, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

There are so many writers and great thinkers that I�d love to exhume to spend a day with, but we�ll let them rest.  Sean Penn would be a drag.  Too many women that it�d be great to spend a day and hey, if lucky, a night with but that�d be too clich�.  It would probably Thom Yorke.  I could hang out in a studio with him and watch him work while drinking tea and chatting.  Nothing fancy, not in public, but just to hear that stuff in a studio would be great...

January 28, 2005

1.  I heard the wackiest rumor that you were born in the car on the way to the hospital?  Is that true?

I was not born in a car but boy that would sure be a great story...

2.  You've mentioned your mother a lot when talking about your early career.  What about your father?

My father is my best friend.  He�s one of the most intelligent and caring individuals that I�ve ever known.  We talk several times a day usually and it�s scary that you start to �become� your parents.  I see much of my father in myself which is a very, very profound thought.

3.  For some actors I've read that it was hard to watch themselves do sexual scenes on the teleprompter, others are quite comfortable.  Were you comfortable?  BTW, how was that kiss with Maggie?

The kiss with Maggie (Shannon) was great story wise and uh, well you know...?

4.  Have you read The Rules of Attraction, and if so did you read it before or after you got the part of Paul?  I agree with the comment that you made about Paul being insecure and self-obsessive, but I must say he is by far my favorite character in the novel (although Richard is horribly fantastic as well), and you portrayed him wonderfully in the film.  Are your feelings towards Paul at all negative?

I read the book actually right after I got the film.  The next day we traveled to shoot and I got the book that night.  As far as my feelings towards Paul; I felt sorry for him.  He, like many characters in Bret�s books are lost and superficially happy.  It�s not a negative or a positive, it just is.

5.  What are your thoughts on the conflict of moving "Lost's" production to Los Angeles from Hawaii due to the high expense of shooting on Hawaii?

I believe that it�s all big-business smokescreens.  The studio and the state are using the media to get what they want.  I do think that the state would be let�s say, �not smart� to have the show leave.  It�s absence would not be good for our economy here.

January 21, 2005

1.  What are your favorite wine brands and labels? And from where?

Wow, that�s a big one.  Well, some are of course these are favorites and can�t drink them often because it�s not the most economical:

Chateau Haut Brion
Barbaresco
Opus One
Barolo
Chateau Yquem

The one�s I drink regularly that I love and are affordable:

Coppola (all of his wines are quality)
St. Francis
Hess (the older ones)
Stagg�s Leap
BV (the older ones)
There are literally so many that I can�t even think, but there are a few.

2.  You are a keen sportsman but, would you like to be the president of a soccer team, a basketball team or something similar? Have you ever thought to make this type of  investment?

NO WAY! I�m not that ambitious- that�s a lot of crap to deal with. Athletes like actors can be such hot heads and I wouldn�t be able to cope with all of the politics involved.

3.  I know me, living away from home at school in the north, it is hard to not miss my mother's southern cooking, I was wondering if you miss it, and have had a chance to have some since you have come back? Which do you prefer, southern, Cajun, or Creole food?

I love it all and ate my share when I was home for the holidays.  You know that the best way to feel at home is to make a great huge pot of gumbo!  I agree with you though there is something about that food in which makes one crave it�s endorphin-producing and taste bud popping quality.

4.  You've done a lot of modeling. How did that feel to get out there, and pose for those advertisements and various other jobs, knowing your face would eventually be seen almost everywhere? Was it ever nerve-wracking? Did you get nervous?

To be honest, no.  You sort of know going into it that yes, it will be seen by people but if you�re not that self conscience about you are sure to be okay with the concept.

5.  Can you shed some light on all this talk about skinny dipping?  Like who, when, where, pictures (kidding!) etc...

Uh, well it is what it is, why not swim naked???

January 14, 2005

1.  Being an actor must have been a lot of work for you. Who is or what was your inspiration to become one?

There are many actors, writers (screen and stage), directors, and producers whom have all made me feel at some point inspired to do this.  It�s a gift, I swear, and not a gift in the sense that I have talent, I don�t. It�s the gift of being able to get up every morning to work.  In short, I have surmised that it takes much desire and work with a great deal of inspiration of many different types.
 
2.  I've noticed a growing number of Lost fan fiction featuring your character as well as a growing amount of fan fiction about you - do you find any of this creepy?  Have you read any Lost fanfic yet?

I�ve read a fair amount, but we don�t and can�t take it too seriously-it�s supposed to be fun right???

3.  How did you land the role of Boone on LOST and what was the audition like?

I actually didn�t want to read pilots at this time last year but my manager told me that she was sending a few pages from a pilot and that I should look at the director and the location. Upon following the instructions from her, I immediately called her after seeing that it was JJ Abrams and it shot in Hawaii!  I met them, read a scene or two then I was tested by the network and the studio � a brutal process.  A few weeks later I was in Hawaii!

4.  I've read that you recommend kids to go to college first before pursuing a career such as modeling. Do you have any regrets that you yourself did not attend college? If you had attended, what would have been your dream school?

It makes sense, attending school first, you have something to fall back on.  However, there is another way, I guess, in which if you do have an opportunity to model for a short time and school will always be there then it would make sense to travel first for a spell.  Here�s the thing though, it�s all about specifics...  Each one of us has a separate path and whose to say (especially the unconventional me) what is best for you.

5.  Do you ever lurk [read without posting] on the Fuselage?  Do you visit any other message boards?

I don�t �lurk� yet, but I really want to.
 

January 7, 2005

1.  You've had some pretty physical scenes, both on Lost and with your other roles.  Have you ever gotten hurt filming?

You know, you get bruised occasionally, but it�s the best feeling.

2.  Have you ever gotten writers block and if you do, what do you do about it?

I have gotten it, yes, and it�s a horrible thing to have.  What I deduced from the situation is that putting more pressure on yourself to �push� it out of you it may end up even more counter productive that you imagined.  A long walk or drive may help.  It may quite possibly take a long trip or a good bit of release or introspection; I think that it�s all specific to what gets you back on track.

3. When you returned to Mandeville this Christmas and visited The Pub how did it effect you? The past is always something that will be a part of you, but now as you return and your face is highly recognized is it still the same?

It is the same indeed and that means a great deal to me.

4.  In your Friday Five where you talk about your approach to aestheticism, you say you "have a major, life-ruling problem with aesthetics".  Could you expand on that?  Is it related to your career as a model and/or the women you've been romantically associated with?

No actually unfortunately it has to do with neurosis!  Uh, it�s more of a problem with symmetry and colors I guess.  I could expound on the subject but would forfeit any chance of even sounding remotely sane considering all of the things that are going on in the world while I obsess on these things.  However, it is all about the pursuit of happiness and we must do what is necessary.

5.  Acting requires a dichotomy of thinking.  There is the part that must focus on hitting your mark, analyzing your choices, making sure what you're trying to convey is "out there", and there is also the character itself.  How do you personally find the happy medium between these two aspects of playing a character?

Well, to be honest it becomes completely separate.  You remain cognizant of what and where you need to be for technical reasons, but the truth of weaving life into the text comes as a result of being in a moment.  Emotional preparation, listening and truth brings you (usually) to the exact place in which you need to be while sometimes being more that you expected.

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