Ryan Merriman might be just 20 years old, but he's already a veteran TV and movie actor. Popstar! readers have crushed on his adorable characters in The Luck of the Irish and A Ring of Endless Light, Disney Channel staples that made him a schoolyard name. He's also made an impression in a huge variety of other projects, including the slasher Halloween : Resurrection and the critically acclaimed The Deep End of the Ocean. Flexing his acting muscles on the ABC series Veritas, Ryan's quest to broaden his horizons continues.

By popular demand, we allowed our on-line readers (wanna join the free e-newsletter ? just e-mail popstarmag@aol.com with "SUSCRIBE TO E-NEWSLETTER" as the subject and you're in) to submit questions for this Oklahoma boy, who answered 10 of them ... just for you guys !

Check it out and learn some surprising secrets about this versatile talent !

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photo credit : © ABC

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1- Who is your celebrity crush ?

- Shelby, Mira Loma, CA

That would have to be the divine beauty Charlize Theron.

2 - What are the best and worst things about being an actor ?

- Heather, Sacramento, CA

The best is the travel and the exciting things you get to see and do, but mostly the great people you have a chance to work with. The worst is the loneliness. It's especially lonely and cold in Canada these days ...

3 - First, I want to thank you for sending me a personalized autographed photo in response to a letter I wrote you last year - it meant a lot. You've done so many types of projects from comedy to horror to drama. Do you have a preference ? And do you prefer TV or movies ? Finally, what is your advice to new actors ?

- Samantha, Internet

I prefer making movies. There is too much politics in television. With movies, you just shoot it, it comes out and everyone gets a chance to see it. Television is too unpredictable. There are too many variables that are out of your control that determine the success or failure of your series.

As far as what type, I prefer drama. In dramatic roles, there is more depth. As an actor you get to show so many levels of emotion and character in your work. It's a bigger challenge to take on the dramatic roles. The best roles are what I call "dramedies". Something that has a little drama mixed with comedy. I'm basically a wild and fun kind of guy, so a role that lets a little bit of that side of me come through is always fun.

The character of Nikko is really perfect for me because he's deep and intelligent, but he's got this cocky, cut-up side too.

As far as advice ... believe in your dream and follow your passion. Get yourself a good personal manager and a great agent who believe in your talent. When the time comes, make sure you can deliver what it takes. Keep your head on straight and always "rock steady". It worked for me !

" The character of Nikko is really perfect for me because he's deep and intelligent, but he's got this cocky, cut-up side too. "

4 - Since you've done so many movies for Disney Channel, is it nice getting more adult roles now ? If you had to choose between starring in a big movies and a big TV series, which would you choose ?

- Allison, Tarzana, CA

If the TV series was a huge hit and could have a five-year or more run, that would be great. There is always time to do one hit movie a summer, so I'd have the best of both worlds and get to stay in one place for awhile !

5 - What was your favorite role to play ? And do you plan to pursue acting as your adult career ?

- Roxanne, Bristol, RI

My new role as Nikko is definitely my favorite. I plan to stay in front of the camera for as long as God's grace lets me. If the opportunities are there, I will keep coming at you from the TV and big screen. Being able to entertain you is what I love best.

6 - I saw you in Halloween : Resurrection and I wanted to say "Good job!" My question is : What was it like to film a horror movie ?

- Melissa, Alamo, TX

It was a blast ! I had a lot of fun with all the cast and crew. Not as scary doing it as seeing it on film.

7 - Hey ! What bands/singers do you like ?

- Jessie, FL

Any country tunes and I'm still a big Dixie Chicks fan. Mix in some rap, oldies and Elvis.

8 - I'm a *HUGE* fan of yours, and you've been my favorite actor since I can remember. I was wondering ... what acting challenge do you enjoy most ?

- Tesia, Green Bay, WI

I enjoy dramatic and emotional scenes. They are the most challenging for me as an actor.

9 - I was just wondering if you're single, because I think you're really HOTT !!

- Michelle, Morriston, FL

Thanks ! [blushes]

10 - Ryan, do you have any new projects coming up ? If so, can you give some info on them ? I'd love to see your cute face again soon !

- Yvonne, Mine Hill, New Jersey

I am currently on the ABC series Veritas on Monday nights and that is keeping me pretty busy. There are some other things in the works, but nothing concrete yet. You'll see !