Nikki Griffin

Nikki (advice for those just entering the industry): You have to be careful. There are so many people trying to take advantage of actors who are getting started. Being aware of your surroundings and your situation and working hard is the key.

Nikki (on if she relates to the sexuality of Jess): Though I'm comfortable with myself and my sexuality, I'd prefer to be the cool, fun chick that everyone wants to hang out with to being the girl that everyone wants to sleep with. Nobody wants to be that girl. I knew girls like Jess in high school—with that confidence, that sexual energy, the raging hormones.

Nikki (on if she is publicly recognized for appearing on The OC): Not as much as you would think. I occasionally get recognized, usually by 15- and 16-year-old girls or guys over 30—I'm not kidding. But only the little girls approach me.

Nikki (comments on the south): I love the South. People say that Southerners are stupid or racist or slow. That's just not true.

Nikki (on how she made it in the industry): I modeled when I was younger, but I didn't have the connections in the entertainment industry that I could utilize to get auditions. I moved out to LA with a friend, and he went back home after a month. He hated it, but I stuck it out. I didn't know anyone when I moved here. I did it the old fashioned way. I got a job at a restaurant. I was out here for about a year, and then I met my manager. We instantly clicked, and she really believed in me. One of the most important things is to find that person that really believes in you and is willing to work their hardest to help you.

Nikki (on dating costars): That whole dating costars thing is awkward. You're on a show that could possibly go on for a long time—some run for seven years. So unless you think you're in [the relationship] for the long haul, don't piss in the pool, y'know?

Nikki (about her sex appeal): I have little schoolgirl outfits in my closet. I like the schoolgirl look, because men are obsessed with youth—and I have such a young, innocent look that they love it. I was going to get a nurse's outfit, but my mom is a nurse, and that would just be a little weird.

Nikki: I've dated guys with big noses or who were maybe a little heavier than they should be.

Nikki: I love fried chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy, and sweet tea.

Nikki (on the General Lee): I love cars, especially older muscle cars—like Mustangs. The General was awesome. I learned how to do a 180 in it, which was really fun.