And the Yes Gorgeous Man Award '96 goes to... FERRI SOMOGYI

One year ago on the dot yes interviewed him for the very first time. Ferri was at the beginning of his GTST career. But things move fast, for now already he is given this award.

- What has changed since one year ago? "It has become more difficult for me to go out in the street unnoticed. From day one I was a celebrity. Even if your behind just turns up on television, people recognize you. But I have no problem with that. I haven't changed very much, I think, but maybe you should ask other people."

- Do you have an example of your popularity? "The other day I had this soccer game, and the girls stood screaming in front of the locker room door. Then you become aware of your impact on people. But I forget easily."

- Do you get a lot of fan mail? "That varies from 3 to 100 letters a day. Most of the time they want my autograph. I receive a lot of drawings and presents. My attic is stashed, because I don't throw anything away. I try to read and reply everything. I also get a lot of letters from women who actually believe I am Rik! They tell me everything. Sometimes because they've gone through what my character is going through."

- Do people treat you differently because of your popularity? "People who treated me like dirt in high school, now suddenly are your best friend. F... off! some people think you're arrogant, and I find that disappointing. The friends I already had, though, are still there. I'm happy with that, they are all I need."

- You started acting to get rid of your shyness. Did it work? "I have to deal with quite a lot of things, and I've become better at that. I'm more comfortable in standing up for myself."

- A year ago you told us you wanted to exercise more. Do you? "I work out three or four times a week, an hour at a time. The actors' soccer team doesn't play often, but I play a lot with the Veronica All Star Soccer team. And I would like to devote even more of my time to sports."

- Do you have a girlfriend? "I do meet girls every now and then, and sometimes we connect. But I'm still single..."

- Will you be nominated as an actor next year, i.e. will you continue being an actor? "I want to keep doing this and gain as much experience as I can. If they want me to stay at GTST, I'll stay. I will keep playing Rik for a while. He gets the wildest storylines. I can't say anything, but it will be great...."

Editor's note: Ferri not only is a deserving award winner, he's a very nice guy as well. Next year, we'll make him Nicest Actor Award nominee.

Photos: Yes' Claudia presents the award. Ferri's reaction: "Really? How about that? I don't know what to say. I usually forget how popular I am, and that's probably for the best, or I might get conceited. I consider the award a confirmation, though. I think it's great, I'm flattered."

"Is it real gold? I do have this light colored interior, so it will most definitely stand out. Maybe I'll put it in my dressing room. Anyway, I'll put it in a good spot."