James Marsden covers the September issue of Da Man magazine, and I believe that he’s promoting his current role on “30 Rock,” in which he plays Tina Fey’s aimless boyfriend, as well as his future role in a film called Bachelorette. I’ve always sensed an inner douche inside of James, and his recent actions — knocking up a Brazilian model mere months after splitting from his wife, who may or may not have divorced him because he starred in Hop, as well as his drunken shenanigans involving a 4:30 AM Papaya King serenade — have confirmed as much. Now in this interview, James sort of disses his experiences acting in kiddie movies like Enchanted and Hop, but he sure didn’t have any problems accepting the paychecks for those roles, right? Here are some excerpts:

Working with Tina Fey on “30 Rock”: “In my opinion, ’30 Rock’ is a prime example of a show that is designed around the writing. The dialogue is incredibly well-crafted so it does not need to be tinkered with. That said, the show allows me plenty of creative latitude. They are always open to whatever extra contributions you might make to the dialogue or specific ideas. But I know my ideas better be funny or it won’t make the edit. The scenes between Tina and I are usually very playful and it is great to be on set with her. Comedy is so tough but when you work with the greats it just makes you better.”

Will he ever sing on Broadway? “Singing was always something I just did for fun. I would say that I’m more of a mimic with a good ear and a decent voice than a trained singer. I’ve been lucky to be able to showcase my singing abilities in film and would definitely pursue a musical if the right one came along.”

Does he like enjoy acting with non-existent presences (Hop & Enchanted)? “As an actor it’s always better to have something or someone you can see and hear rather than having to imagine. Doing scenes opposite tennis balls on tripods or little pieces of green tape doesn’t really satisfy the artist in me. And it makes you feel a bit crazy, talking to nothing. But it’s a skill set that we have to have these days as more and more films incorporate digital elements.”

On his style: “I think I can be a stylish person when I choose to be, but I usually don’t make that choice. Although, even with my basic style, I try not to look like a bum. Good jeans, good shoes, good watch. As a guy, that’s all you really need to concentrate on.”

He does triathalons & works out: “I usually run or bike to stay in shape. I don’t eat junk but I don’t have a strict diet either. I drink mostly water, go for a run 3-4 times a week, and eat moderately healthy. That’s pretty much it.”

[From Da Man]

As you can see, this is a less than riveting interview, and the photoshoot isn’t much better. I kind of prefer James with those loose curls he sported not too long ago. As for his words on how acting alongside non-existent CGI creatures not “really satisfy[ing] the artist in me,” well, no one ever put a gun to his head and made him sign up for those movies. The dude ought to just be grateful he’s still working at all. Sure, he’s cute, but cute is very replaceable in Hollywood.

Photos courtesy of Da Man