Maria Bello [actor/ humanitarian]

By: Editor | December 15, 2011 | Lifestyle

Bello is a graduate of Villanova University, and when she’s not practicing the lethal form of kickboxing called Muay Thai, she’s doing charitable work in Haiti and raising her 10-year-old son, Jackson Blue. Her versatile acting talent has landed her roles from indie films like the History of Violence to big-budget action flicks like The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor that ensure she will keep churning out focused and successful performances as she continues her philanthropic endeavors. Most recently, she starred in NBC’s Prime Suspect, as the resilient and tough NYPD detective Jane Timoney.

Describe your personality in 10 words or less.
Don’t try to put me in a box.

If you were reincarnated, who or what would you like to come back as?
Ernest Hemingway.

Name your favorite …
Contemporary musician: Adele
Comfort food: my mom’s meatballs and sauce — which you can make yourself by checking out her cookbook (auntkathskitchen.com).
Wild animal: my cat, Clive
Instrument: voice
Founding Father: Father Rick Frechette — founder of St. Luke’s schools in Haiti.

What do you consider your greatest professional accomplishment?
Being a 44-year-old woman and working more — in compelling and dynamic rolls — than ever before.

What are you pissed about right now?
Some big nongovernmental organizations in Haiti that have a lot of money but aren’t doing jack shit.

What tunes would be on the five-song playlist to your life?
“Thunder Road,” Bruce Springsteen; “Femmes Se Poto Mitan,” Barbara Guillaume; “Landslide,” Fleetwood Mac; “I Want to Live,” John Denver; and “Summertime,” Ella Fitzgerald.

What is your greatest fear?
Wine, cigarettes and coffee becoming illegal.

Who is the most interesting person you have ever met (and why)?
My son, Jackson, because he is complicated, mercurial and an old soul who challenges me every day. And he’s funny!

Name three things you cannot live without.
See answer regarding fears.

You get one wish …
That my son will be brave enough to joyfully follow his destiny and his heart.

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