‘Vampire Diaries’ Star Steven R. McQueen on His Grandfather’s Famous Fans: ‘I Was Overwhelmed’ (Video)

The actor talks to TheWrap about what he learned from Spike TV documentary “I Am Steve McQueen”

Some “Vampire Diaries” fans may not know that Steven R. McQueen, who plays Jeremy Gilbert on The CW series, is named after his famous grandfather, Steve McQueen.

McQueen, known as the “king of cool” in 60s and 70s Hollywood, is the subject of Spike TV’s upcoming documentary, “I Am Steve McQueen.”

“I saw the documentary for the first time last night. It was incredible,” McQueen told TheWrap. “I never got to meet my grandfather and I’m sure the younger audiences don’t know much about him. So, it was cool for myself to learn about him, and hopefully some people that watch.”

See video: Spike TV Doc: Steve McQueen Scared the Bejesus Out of Bruce Lee in a Mulholland Drive Joyride

Steven said that watching his grandfather’s films actually inspired him to act. “I was like, ‘Wow, this guy’s pretty cool. Maybe, I want to give this a shot.’”

Narrated by Robert Downey Jr., “I Am Steve McQueen” features interviews with Steven, his family and the iconic actor’s famous fans, including Pierce Brosnan and Gary Oldman.

Also read: Matthew McConaughey to Be Honored at Spike TV’s Guys Choice Awards

“I’ve always looked up to Gary Oldman,” Steve said of his favorite famous fan of his grandfather from the documentary. “He’s always been one of my favorite actors since I can’t even remember when. I went the day that they interviewed him and I was in awe, just kind of listening to him speak and getting to shake his hand. It was an incredible experience. I was overwhelmed.”

Watch more from TheWrap’s interview with Steven above.

Below, TheWrap speaks with Steven about his “Vampire Diaries” role, another possible CW role and the upcoming Comic Con.

“I Am Steve McQueen” premieres Tuesday at 9/8c on Spike TV.

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