GREG KINNEAR

Staples Center

Downtown Los Angeles, CA

April 17, 2000

Photo credit: Greg Kinnear

Here's how it all began:

I was at an LA Kings Stanley Cup Playoff game when my friend spotted a movie star seated in the section next to ours. I didn’t know who the guy was, but I told myself that I either have to go do this or stop talking about this great idea I have. I wasn’t ready to stop talking about it. So between second and third period, and after I made my friend promise this guy was famous, I went to the front row and sat right down in the seat next to him. He ignored me.

I leaned over and said hello to him and his reluctant friend. Then, for the very first time, I pitched my idea. “This is kind of embarrassing, but I have this Celebrity Photo Album and, well, could you take a picture of me?”

He seemed relieved that I didn’t want a photo of him, and in response, Mr. Greg Kinnear gave me a look that said, This girl is off her rocker, let’s make fun of her. He paused, took my camera, then motioned for his friend to join me in the picture.

His friend came over to stand by me and gave me one last chance to prove I wasn’t crazy. “Are you sure you don’t want a picture of you and him instead?” he asked. I said, “No. He has to take the picture.”

This confirmed it. It was now clear to them that I was a complete nut. His friend thought my request was odd, but at least entertaining. Greg didn’t appreciate my twist and didn’t seem to care. He snapped a photo and handed my camera back. I thanked them, and they no doubt made fun of me as I walked back to my seat.

I realize I need to refine my approach. Greg worked quite well as an ice breaker, though. Coincidence that we were at a hockey game? Perhaps, but thanks for helping me get this ball rolling. Now I will always recognize you, Mr. Kinnear, and I will talk you up to my friends. You're number one in my book. Literally.