Hometown Celebrity

Chula Vista’s Own Mario Lopez

No matter how much fame Mario Lopez has, Chula Vista will always hold a special place in his heart. Mario is exactly what his fans would hope him to be; disarming, candid, funny, all unique qualities for someone in his profession. He is not only an icon to look up to, but someone who’s easy to laugh with. Lopez first stole our hearts in the beloved TV sitcom Saved by the Bell, one of the longest running programs in American broadcast history. If you’re ever feeling nostalgic you can still watch reruns of his character AC Slater every morning on TBS. He is one of the few actors to triumph from childhood star to adult celebrity. Actor, author, producer, and now television host, Mario Lopez has transformed into a contemporary entertainment personality. You can find Lopez as the host on EXTRA, a relevant, innovative celebrity gossip program. Recognizing his success, MTV caught the Lopez fever making him the host of their highest rating reality show, America’s Best Dance Crew. Lopez cross pollinates his athleticism for his love of the performing arts, participating in the third season of Dancing with the Stars. Showing America his loveable nature and degree of motivation, he branched into the hit Broadway musical, Chorus Line. In addition to his ranked success, Lopez added a new chapter to his life, authorship, writing a children’s book named Mud Tacos. Mario Lopez is in the height of his career, crossing all boundaries and showing no limits to his accomplishments. On top of his conquests and talent, Mario Lopez is a down to earth, courteous, amiable kind of guy. And where are Mario’s roots; deeply planted in his hometown of Chula Vista.

You are Happy Hour Magazine’s hometown celebrity, how was growing up in Chula Vista?
I loved it! I Love San Diego!

Did you always feel destined to become a superstar?
(Laughs) No, I didn’t at all.

Was there a particular actor that you looked up to or idolized?
No, there wasn’t anyone I looked up to. There was no one in the business that looked like me, there were no Latinos.

Your character AC Slater on Saved by the Bell really became an iconic heartthrob figure. Did you expect such attention from the series?
No, I really didn’t. It was supposed to be Saturday mornings only, and now we just celebrated our 20th year on air, it’s incredible.

Are you still friends with any of the cast members?
Yes, absolutely. I just did a cover with everybody for People Magazine, we keep in close contact.

Did the huge success change you at that young and impressionable age or was it humbling?
No, I never forgot where I came from.

What was the craziest thing you ever did?
Move to L.A. to become an actor.

I hear you’re also an author of Mud Tacos, talk to me about that.
I wrote it with my sister; we spent a lot of time growing up in our Grandmother’s backyard. It’s a book that inspires kids to use they’re imagination.

You seem like a very down to earth guy, has it been hard to stay grounded in such a profession that demands perfection?
No, I know my roots. I live in L.A, which isn’t far from home and I get to visit my family as often as I want.

What was the experience like being on Dancing with the Stars?
I turned down the opportunity a few times and finally gave in and almost won the whole thing. It was great!

American Best Dance Crew, do you dabble in break dancing?
(Laughs) It’s awesome to host a show that cultivates raw talent.

You are obviously in shape did you have to sell your soul to keep that body? What’s your daily exercise routine or athletic release?
Boxing. That’s my secret.

Ever feel nostalgic and hang out in your hometown of San Diego?
All the time!! My family is here and I have my own place in San Diego.

What would only a local know about San Diego?
The Mariscos (‘seafood’ in Spanish)! Check it out, down by the beaches in Chula Vista.

When you do come down to San Diego, are there any bars or clubs that you have to revisit?
Honestly when I come down to San Diego I see my family, they are such a source of encouragement for me, it’s important for me to spend as much time with them as possible.

Are you a billiards and beer or nightclub and shots kind of guy?
A little of both; but vodka.

Vodka?
Vodka Soda with two limes.

 What is your perfect happy hour?
Anything with authentic Mexican food! They don’t make tacos or carnitas in L.A. like they do in Chula Vista.

Do you have a favorite happy hour in San Diego?
Don’t have one yet, but I love going out to dinner and hanging out in the Gaslamp.

Do you rock the Chargers?
Hell Yeah!

Ever scope out the singles scene in San Diego, or are you taken?
(Laughs) I’m always scoping out the scene.

Would you ever move back to San Diego and settle down later in life?
Yes! I would move back in my young age, but being in the business I have to stay in L.A.

What’s the next step in your career? What can we expect in the future from you?
Extra! Watch it! Every night! And Check out Mud Tacos.

Photos courtesy of Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.