Donnie's October Chat

Former New Kids On The Block singer, DONNIE WAHLBERG, is stretching his acting muscles with a lead role in his new film 'Southie.' The film is the gripping drama of one man's return to his tough, Irish neighborhood of South Boston and his struggle to hold his family together. Donnie reveals details about the making this film and his New Kids days.

AnnieM asks: What is it like to be the star of your new movie? Is there more pressure in having the starring role?

Donnie: I love being the star of my new movie... Pressure? Yes and no. It's like anything else, you get focused and get going at it.

Amanda&Katherine asks: We are so excited to see you in your new movie! When does it come out?

Donnie: Right now, we're in negotiations with a distributor. Maybe between February and March. We're hoping for a St. Patrick's Day release.

PatriciaJameson asks: What similarities do you have to your character in your new movie 'Southie?' Aren't you from Boston too?

Donnie: My whole family is from Boston. There are a lot of similarities between my life and my character. He's like the caretaker of his family... Once I got involved with NKOTB, it was the same role.

SupaDupaFly asks: What was it that made you want to get into acting?

Donnie: I was actually an actor before I was a singer. I did plays at school, and I was interested in it. It was something I always wanted to do, but I got involved with the music. Now, I've gotten re-involved in acting and gotten more and more into it again.

Nikko asks: Do you think that you and your brother, MARK WAHLBERG, will ever do a movie together? I think you should because I love you guys!

Donnie: Well, you know, if the right thing comes up -- we're definitely looking to do something... something where we're both creatively challenged.

stefanie asks: I think ROSE McGOWAN from 'Scream' is so cool. What is she like?

Donnie: She is REALLY cool and REALLY sexy. Kinda like my sister while we were doing the movie... Rose is really smart and quick-witted and she has an answer for everything.

FeliX asks: Do you think that you will ever make a return to music, or do you just want to concentrate on acting?

Donnie: Right now, I just want to concentrate on acting. But music has been such a big part of my life that it will be something I can dabble in and out of it. Right now, acting is something I want to focus on and be the best I can be at it.

mia asks: Are you and your brother Mark very close? How often do you guys get to see each other?

Donnie: Well, we don't get to see each other as much as we'd like. Both of our schedules are very, very demanding. But I spoke with him on the phone today, and I love him and I miss him.

Kaleb asks: Have you ever done an Internet chat before?

Donnie: Yeah, I have. I've done lots of them. When I have the time, I love to know what the fans are doing and what they're thinking. I can't wait for them to see the movie 'Southie.' I think they're going to like it.

Kayla asks: I thought you were really good in 'Ransom!' What was it like making that movie?

Donnie: 'Ransom' was great -- working with MEL GIBSON, RON HOWARD, GARY SINISE. It was a great learning experience and being on the set with them.

portia asks: Did you do all of your own stunts in 'Ransom?'

Donnie: I did most of them.

stephen asks: What do you think of the Web sites out there that are dedicated to you?

Donnie: It's fantastic. I don't know what to say.

Mabel C. asks: How many tattoos do you have and what are they of?

Donnie: I have one. It's on my shoulder and it's actually a shield.

RyanM asks: How do you stay in such great shape?

Donnie: I exercise daily and eat right. I like to eat and lots of food -- Cuban, Mexican. That's one reason I liked touring so much is I got to eat all sorts of different foods.

NAIMA asks: What kind of music do you like?

Donnie: Oh, man. As long it's playing, I'm listening. I love all kinds of music.

Rob asks: Who were your influences growing up?

Donnie: My brother Jimbo. My family, mainly.

Taylor asks: Do you still keep in touch with any of the other New Kids?

Donnie: Oh, yeah. We all stay in touch with each other... let each other know what's going on. I was just with Joe Mac [McIntyre] in NY.

kenya asks: I loved you in New Kids On The Block! Do you think there's any chance of a reunion?

Donnie: I don't know. There's always talk.

Elle asks: What was the time of your life like where you were in New Kids On The Block?

Donnie: The fanfare was just amazing. I just loved touring.

AnnieM asks: I heard that you are going to be in a movie with BRUCE WILLIS? What is it like working with him?

Donnie: The movie with Bruce Willis just wrapped in Philadelphia... It's called 'The Sixth Sense.' I want to add, tomorrow night I want everyone to come down here -- the film's screening tomorrow night for 'Southie' at the AFI Film Festival at Laemmle's in Santa Monica. Saturday night at 10:00 PM. It's on 1332 2nd Street in Santa Monica, CA.

ET Host: The tickets are only $5 tomorrow night -- so go on down there! What was it like working with Bruce?

Donnie: Bruce Willis is the greatest guy. Of all the people I've ever met, he is the stand-up guy. He's really down-to-earth and just a pleasure to be around.

Valerie asks: How does it feel to be labeled as a sex symbol?

Donnie: Well, it's kind of hard to believe and understand when you get up everyday and look in the mirror at yourself. I don't really think about that.

Mr.Mister asks: Were there any funny or embarrassing moments on the set of your new movie?

Donnie: For 'Southie,' I was really focused -- I had to lose 40 lbs. for the part -- so it was really hard in that sense. If people see me in 'Southie,' then see me in 'The Sixth Sense,' they'll see two totally different characters.

ET Host: How did you lose 40 pounds?

Donnie: I worked out a lot... Exercised a lot.

Lisa asks: Hi, Donnie! How many siblings do you have?

Donnie: There's nine kids in my family. I see them as much as possible.

MarkyMark asks: If you could do a love scene with anyone, who would it be?

Donnie: I'd rather not answer that question. :)

Polar Bear asks: What is your favorite movie?

Donnie: 'The Godfather.'

Care Bear asks: What advice do you have for any kids who want to get into acting?

Donnie: I think if somebody wants to do something, they should try it. When it comes down to something like acting, and it's something you really enjoy, you should try it. That's the only way you're going to find out anything is by trying it. Go down to a local theater and try out for parts. And don't forget you're all invited down to the Laemmle's Monica 4 in Santa Monica, CA, for the screening! I'll be there. All my friends will be there and all the stars from the movie will be there -- JOHN SHEA, ANNE MEARA, ROSE McGOWAN, LAWRENCE TIERNEY and more.

ET Host: Free posters for everyone too!

Donnie: I'm here waiting for you all!

ET Host: Okay, thanks, Donnie! So, everyone be sure to check out 'Southie' tomorrow night if you can -- he'd love to see you all there!

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