I did grow up next door to Steve McQueen, who was a very famous movie star at the time, but as a kid it didn't impress me. We always had great fun with him. He would take us out on Sundays on his motorcycles, riding around in the desert; he was like a second father.

The quote by Herb Ritts offers a personal and intimate perspective on growing up near the famous movie star Steve McQueen. Despite McQueen’s significant celebrity status, Ritts reveals that as a child, he was not particularly impressed by the fame. Instead, he fondly remembers the enjoyable times they shared, including motorcycle rides in the desert, which show a more human and relatable side of the iconic actor.

Ritts describes McQueen as being like a second father, emphasizing the close and caring relationship they had beyond McQueen’s public image. This portrayal challenges the typical perception of celebrities as distant or unapproachable, highlighting how fame did not prevent McQueen from forming genuine connections with those around him.

The origin of this quote comes from Ritts’s reflections on his childhood and his relationship with McQueen, a legendary figure in Hollywood known for his cool persona and adventurous spirit. Ritts’s memories provide a glimpse into the private life of a famous individual, illustrating how fame and personal relationships can coexist.

In summary, the quote captures Herb Ritts’s affectionate view of growing up next to Steve McQueen, emphasizing the difference between public fame and personal bonds. It shows that even the most famous people can be warm, influential figures in the lives of those close to them.