Patrick Dempsey Stays Down To Earth

LOS ANGELES, CA., Nov. 11 (TOTI) --

Patrick Dempsey, who's career in Hollywood has spanned over a quarter century, has learned to take a down-to-earth approach to the whims of fame and fortune.

"To never get caught up in believing your own hype is the key," Dempsey, 43, told Los Angeles Confidential.

For example, there's his nickname for Grey's Academy. To many fans, he's known as "McDreamy."

"It's a double-edged sword," he said. "This will be my legacy. I will be McDreamy."

Dempsey even says his hair isn't as amazing as some might think either.

"Sometimes I just don't want to deal with it, and I just throw on a hat. It's really curly. I'm just glad it's not falling out."

Patrick Dempsey might enjoy acting, but he also has a rich personal life. He enjoys race-car driving and mainly he likes spending time with his wife Jillian and their two kids.

"Having children is a tremendous thing - at the end of the day, that's what it's all about. It keeps you grounded. It keeps you exhausted. It wipes you out."