"It's just nice to work hard and be rewarded, which is having lots of people watch. And the icing on the cake is for me is to be able to walk around with pride, feeling that the product you put out is worthy of being watched. But honestly, it's not a big deal. I don't put too much stock in fame or celebrity anyway. I don't put it in the 'important' box"

In this quote, Christopher Meloni articulates a complicated relationship with success, fame, and personal fulfillment. At its core, Meloni reveals a sense of fulfillment derived from hard work and the subsequent acknowledgment it garners. He appreciates the effort purchased creating something important and being rewarded with an audience that acknowledges and values it, metaphorically describing this as "icing on the cake."

However, he introduces a nuanced perspective on fame and celeb. In spite of acknowledging the pleasing experience of developing something deemed deserving by others, Meloni downplays the significance of public recognition in his personal value system. By specifying, "it's not a huge deal" and "I do not put too much stock in popularity or star anyhow", he distances himself from the shallow trappings commonly related to success in the entertainment industry. Rather, Meloni appears to focus on the intrinsic fulfillment of taking pride in his work over the extrinsic recognition of popularity.

This statement reflects a grounded and possibly introspective view of success. Meloni values the pride that comes from knowing one's work is worthy rather than looking for external recognition through celeb status. His attitude suggests an understanding of the fleeting and frequently hollow nature of popularity. By not placing fame in the "essential" box, Meloni implies a much deeper gratitude for individual satisfaction and stability in one's work than for the often-ephemeral recognition from the general public.

Moreover, his declaration might function as recommendations or a tip to others navigating comparable courses: the real measure of success is not always fame, but the self-confidence and pride one holds in their work. Eventually, Meloni's point of view motivates a concentrate on authenticity and personal development over social honors.