Name: Ed Begley, Jr. Born: 16 September 1949 Los Angeles, California, USA Height: 6' 3" Occupation: Actor Official website: http://www.edbegleyjr.com

Ed Begley, Jr. had a few minutes to share with us and agreed to answer some questions!

While best known for his role as Dr. Victor Ehrlich on "St. Elsewhere" (TV), Mr. Begley has also appeared in many films and television shows, including:

Columbo (TV)
Meet the Applegates
Parenthood
Battlestar Galactica (TV)
Renaissance Man
Hounded (TV)
7th Heaven (TV)

[Update: Mr. Begley is appearing in the new ABC series "Wednesday 9:30 (8:30 Central)" (previously known as "The Web") with John Cleese, Ivan Sergei, James Michael McCauley, Melinda McGraw, Sherri Shepherd

Welcome, Mr. Begley!

Thank you for taking time our of your schedule to answer some questions for us!

What part of the world do you live in?

"Hollywood, California"

How long have you been vegetarian?

"I started in 1970. It was difficult back then, so I compromised for a few years. No red meat since 1970, but I ate some fish for a while, then became a vegan again in 1992."

Why did you become vegetarian/vegan?

"It's good for my health and the health of the planet. It's also more humane."

What benefits have you experienced since becoming veg*n?

"I feel great."

What would you say to others to encourage them to become vegetarian/vegan?

"If you try it and feel better....keep it up."

In your career, what have been your favorite projects and roles?

"Best in Show....Six Feet Under....The In Laws....St. Elsewhere"

Do you feel there should be more veg*n characters in television and film?

"Fine by me."

What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment in life?

"My children."

Are other members of your family vegan/vegetarian?

"No. My kids eat mostly veg, though, and they like it."

Do you have any pets?

"2 house cats. One dog."

What are your feelings on vegan pet food?

"My pets hated it."

How important is it for people to use organic foods?

"It's very important for me."

Do you try to incorporate much raw food into your diet?

"I try. It's hard at work and on the road."

What are your favorite snacks?

"Avocado veggie sushi."

What are your favorite foods/meals?

"I cook a lot. I make great soups. And dozens of great veggie dishes. My best is my vegetable curry.'

What is your favorite restaurant(s)?

"Real Foods Daily and The Zen Palate."

What is your favorite quote or saying?

"Live simply that others may simply live."

What are your favorite organizations/charities?

"NRDC. Friends of the Earth. The Midnight Mission."

Do you have a favorite website outside the veg*n community?

"ucsusa.org"

What do you think it will take to get more people to move to a plant-based diet?

"Getting a tasty vegan meal."

How do you feel worldwide veganism would affect our planet?

'It's more efficient use of the land."

I understand your house is energy self-sufficient and for transportation you use a bicycle, an electric car, and take mass transit. Do you have recommendations for our visitors to help them move in this direction?

"Get out of your car as much as possible."