Emmanuelle Chriqui is the Montreal-born, Toronto-raised star of Entourage and You Don’t Mess with the Zohan.

She is currently working on several films between recurring episodes of The Mentalist, and the former AskMen.com’s “most desirable woman” is now the face of natural cosmetics brand, Mineral Fusion. Chriqui lends her time to Raise Hope for Congo, is an activist with the Environmental Media Association and is the spokesperson for Colon Cancer Canada, but she took a few moments to meet with her (third) favourite writer.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Waking with an absolute sense of peace. Grounded, and ready to embrace the day without fear.

What is your greatest extravagance?

A 90 minute massage every day. I don’t actually get it, but I would if I could.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

Saving yourself for marriage.

What do you dislike most about your appearance?

More than one thing, but I would have to say my legs. It’s like my upper and lower body belong to two different people, and no matter what I do, they don’t seem balanced.

Which talent would you most like to have?

I wish I could sing like an R&B diva and play the guitar like Jimmy Hendrix.

What is your most treasured possession?

My father’s ring. I can still see his hands.

Now I wear it on a chain around my neck.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

A few things: Confidence without cockiness, a good sense of humour and thoughtfulness.

What is the quality you most like in a woman?

I love a woman that is empowered and in tune with her goddess energy. I find that inspiring.

What do you most value in your friends?

Unconditional love and loyalty. My friends accept that we have different lives, but they don’t judge and defend me when someone does.

I try to do the same for them.

Who are your favourite writers?

After Mike Benhaim? Hah! The author who’s had the most profound effect on me is probably Paulo Coelho, but I also really enjoy Khaled Hosseini.

He wrote The Kite Runner and 1000 Splendid Suns. Such a powerful storyteller.

Who are your heroes in real life?

That’s easy. My dad has always been my hero. He taught me all of life’s lessons with his words and actions.

He never complained, greeted the world with a smile and told me to live life fully and unapologetically. The most important qualities I possess, I owe to him.

What is it that you most dislike?

People whose fears keep them from venturing forward and living the life that they are meant to. It’s a waste of a precious existence.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Wow. There was a time after my mom died, when as a teenager, I could have gone down a darker path.

Instead, I managed to immerse myself in creative energy and stick to somewhat higher ground.

I am proud of how far I’ve come and how I am perceived by those who know me.

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