He broke out as Ryan Atwood on “The O.C.,” but Ben McKenzie is no longer the brooding teen. The 32-year-old actor has graduated to the gritty, Los Angeles-based police drama “Southland,” which kicked off its third season last week. In it, he plays rookie cop Ben Sherman, who is coming into his own as an officer, while his relationship with his partner begins to come apart. To get reacquainted with the star, we chatted with him about food, Justin Bieber and Journey.
1 If you had to pick one fast-food chain to eat at for the rest of your life, which one would it be?
I don’t think I could do it. Couldn’t do it. There’s no way. Zero. None.
2 Favorite dish to cook for yourself when you’re not in a rush?
Probably steak.
3 What’s your most prized possession?
My dog. I have a pit bull. His name is Oscar.
4 Favorite song?
“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey.
5 Favorite word?
Splendiferous.
6 Did you have posters of famous people on your wall growing up? If so, who?
No, I did not. Bummer, huh? I could make it up. Justin Bieber. He wasn’t born yet, but …
7 Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
I think the best advice I’ve ever gotten was to take a shower.
