"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"

In this quote, Herb Ritts reflects on his childhood growing up next door to the popular movie star, Steve McQueen. In spite of McQueen's star status, Ritts was not impressed as a kid. Rather, he keeps in mind the fun times they had together, with McQueen taking them out on his motorcycles for rides in the desert. McQueen was more than simply a famous actor to Ritts; he resembled a second dad figure. This reveals the authentic and down-to-earth nature of McQueen, who had the ability to form a close bond with Ritts and create enduring memories. It also highlights the value of meaningful relationships and experiences over material possessions or fame.