With age comes wisdom, but forChristopher Meloni, age also comes with a career hot streak and the label “Zaddy” — neither of which he was expecting in his 60s.
“It’s a second act to a certain degree,” he tells PEOPLE in this week’s issue.
And it’s one he’s certainly enjoying.
“It’s a gas. It’s fun. I don’t know, has anyone else been crowned Zaddy? Once it’s bestowed upon you, you have to just ride that horse as long as you can,” Meloni, 61, jokes.
Christopher Meloni.Michael Schwartz
The veteran actor — who shares daughterSophia, 21, and sonDante, 18, with wifeof 27 years, artist Sherman Williams — says his family also gets a kick out of his new title.
“My wife, she’s lovely, she gets it. Meaning she’s like, ‘Eh, whatever.’ My kids, on the other hand, invariably once a month, it’s ‘Really? Really?'” he shares. “Their friends will send them a meme that’s come out or whatever.”
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“But I think secretly in their hearts, they get it,” he adds. “It’s cool, because we all have a good goof with it. My children’s friends bust my chops, but it’s all fun. It’s an honor.”
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While Meloni is soaking up every minute of his career renaissance, he also notes how it’s been different this time around on hisLaw and Orderride. (He starred onSVUalongsideMariska Hargitay’s Olivia Benson for 12 seasons until his departure in 2011 amid failed contract negotiations.)
As for the best part?
“Really just having an attitude of enjoying the ride. It’s great. Are you kidding me? I’m 61-years-old and a zaddy. The lucky streak continues.”
For more on Christopher Meloni, pick up the latest issue of PEOPLE, on newsstands Friday, or subscribehere.
Law & Order:Organized Crimeairs Thursdays at 10 p.m. ET on NBC.
source: people.com
