The thid installment of our Character Interviews features a dreamy doc whose marriage is the subject of constant speculation, Derek Shepherd.
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THE INSIDER: Let's get right to it: Why did you stay with Addison?
DEREK: Because I believe in the institution of marriage. When I exchanged my vows with Addison I agreed to honor our union for better or worse. Therefore, I am obligated, both legally and emotionally, to see it through. I love my wife and my responsibility is to her. Life is not a game. You can't just turn your back on your marriage because certain phases are taxing. It's about commitment.
THE INSIDER: So you've said. Do you regret calling Meredith a "whore?"
DEREK: When I made that remark I was going through a lot of soul searching myself, and probably should not have taken it out on Meredith. At least not to such a harsh degree. At the same time we all have to look at ourselves in the mirror each night and take responsibility for our actions, and I think some of Meredith's encounters over the past several months are unbecoming of a person so exceptional.
THE INSIDER: Talk about the hair. Have any tips for our follicle challenged readers?
DEREK: It's a tremendous asset, but with that comes liability. I am obviously lucky as far as hair is concerned, for a man my age. But I find it to be distracting to an extent. Being referred to as Dr. McDreamy and gossiped about in certain circles detracts from my professional reputation. Seattle Grace patients don't want a doctor with great hair. They want a gifted, experienced surgeon who can remove a brain tumor so that they can live.
THE INSIDER: Hard to argue with that. Do you have any words of encouragement or advice for Dr. Burke?
DEREK: Rehabilitation is not going to be easy, and there are going to be major bumps in the road. He has a good chance for full recovery, but he's going to have to retrain his hand and that's a tall order, to be perfectly honest. I will say that if anyone can rebound from this it is Preston Burke. He and I have had our differences, but his work ethic and devotion to medicine are unparalleled. If he wants to succeed at this, which he does, and is committed to the rehabilitation process, he'll be back and better than ever.
THE INSIDER: That's encouraging and uplifting. Lastly, which is your true love: Ferry boats or Meredith?
DEREK: As a New Yorker I am predisposed to disliking anywhere outside the five boroughs, but what really won me over about Seattle was a New York staple -- ferry boats. I have always had an affinity for them. The tranquility, the time for reflection they afford me is invaluable. A large part of me will always be with Meredith, but for now, the ferries exude a greater level of stability.
