Fan Forum - View Single Post - Patrick Dempsey / Derek Shepherd #30:Because he finished 9th at Le Mans, and we are so proud of him!!

Eve_ · 06-22-2009, 11:07 AM

French Le Mans article

I though it was a fun article, so I tried to translate it for you guys.

Quote:

Dr. Shepherd from Grey’s Anatomy had driven the 24 hours of Le Mans in a Ferrari F430. We’re in the garage of his team, Team Seattle.
So, is McDreamy sexy ? Not really. With his scrawny voice, his 1,75m (5’8”) and his blue outfit, he reminds us more of a Smurf.
(Interview before the race)

You throw yourself in car racing. Do you think you’re the next Paul Newman ?
I could never compare myself to Steve McQueen or Paul Newman. I’m trying to find my place here, in my own way, without trying to follow in someone’s footsteps.

You’re trying to be modest !
Not at all, but it’s a dream to be here at the greatest race in the world. To be part of it, is unbelievable.

What’s unbelievable are the crowds of women who are here to see you.
(enthusiastic) Ah yes, it’s totally crazy! I didn’t think I was this popular in France… Everything is about Team Seattle and Dr. Shepherd. That has me speechless.

Stop with the fake modesty.
But it’s not like that! I’m surprised. Really!

What’s the most exciting? Millions of women following you or driving at 300km/h ?
Racing is definitely what’s most exciting.

Oh really ?
I love the fans, but…

You want to say to those women…
(Surprised) No, no, the fans.
But I have to prove myself in front of millions of people. If I stay put, there are only going to be specialists who are going to judge my capacities as a driver. There are also groupies…
(Didn’t really get this part…)

We don’t think you’re life is all that difficult…
Excuse me? No, that’s not at all what I want to say. The pressure of the fans isn’t unbearable. It’s totally compelling.

Between a victory at Le Mans and an Oscar, what do you choose ?
It’s not comparable. Here, my victory is to finish the race. You have to get used to the track, understand how it works and hold for as long as possible. I don’t play to win. Our car is far from being the best in the field. But I can tell you that when we are at the top, we are going to celebrate!

With lots of alcohol?
Oh no, that’s not really what I do. When it comes to that, I’m someone who is well-behaved. Besides, I have to be on set on Monday mornings to film Grey’s.

In the show, you’re nickname is McDreamy. And as a pilot?
I have no idea! I haven't thought of that.

Crazy Pat, that sounds good, no?
(not amused) Yeah...umm… I think we should think of other ones…

And if you had to choose a co-pilot amongst the actors on the show…Sandra Oh will definitely be the best co-pilot, because she’s very serious, she knows how to stay focused and she has great discipline.

Who would you not take ?
Ellen Pompeo! (Laughs) No, I’m kidding. ...There is nothing mean there, I get along with everyone. Anyone would make a great co-pilot.

What if I tell you that you’re a better driver than an actor…
I really respect the work drivers do. So I would say that’s a big compliment. But don’t overdo it either. (pauses) Why? You don’t think I’m a good actor?

Not at all, quite the opposite. If a movie is made about Steve McQueen, would you play the part?
Oh no! I don’t think I could play Steve McQueen!

And again, you’re being modest.
...Although, it would be pretty funny.

You race for the Mécénat Chirurgie Cardiaque. Do you really care for it or is it just good for your image?
I don’t really need that to improve my image. We will keep contact with the association. Thanks to the race, five children will recieve care. I think we will have the possibility to work together again.

Isn’t it bad for the heart to race at Le Mans?
No, because I have been working out more than normal. I do a lot of cardio and go to the gym. At 42 years old, I’m in the best shape.

How do you manage your family life, life as an actor and racing ?
My kids see me happy when I’m in my cars, and my job allows me to go racing. …But my family is provides balance, they're the centre of everything.

Isn’t it hard to start a race when you’re the father of three children?
You know, I’m a pro, I have experience and I pay attention to everything. Naturally, I’m being extremely careful. It’s thanks to my kids that I have become responsible.

When will you return to France ?
I don’t know yet. But if I move to France, I will buy a castle close to Le Mans! We are staying at a real castle with huge walls and an immense history. I’m fascinated.