Issue date: September 24, 2000

Patrick Fugit's "almost" fame

ILL NOW, Patrick Fugit's biggest brush with fame was a couple of guest spots on Touched by an Angel. But now, as a star of Almost Famous -- the much-anticipated rock 'n' roll nostalgia flick from Cameron Crowe -- he's on the brink of making it big. As the film opens, we talk to Fugit (Few-git), 17, who plays a 15-year-old rock reporter-turned-accidental groupie, about fame, firsts and puckering up with Goldie Hawn's daughter.

This film could change your life. What's it like to be almost famous?
It's crazy. I went to see Bring It On and the Almost Famous trailer was on beforehand. After the trailer, I heard a family start whispering. Then the mom said, "Excuse me. Were you in the trailer just now?" It was weird.

How did you connect with your character?
It's his first time out of San Diego, and he's a total greenhorn. It was the same for me, leaving Salt Lake City. It was my first experience with moviemaking, first starring role, first time meeting famous people, first onscreen kiss.

How nervous were you kissing Kate Hudson?
You have no idea. I ate two boxes of Altoids before lunch. I brushed my teeth repeatedly.

Are there downsides to fame?
If people are so obsessed that you can't control it. Not being able to go to Burger King, rent a movie.

Is it odd to see yourself onscreen?
Surreal. The whole two hours went by in 10 minutes.