Don Jeffcoat grew up the product of an old-fashioned Southern upbringing, where hard work always reaps rewards. Although today, the actor resides in Manhattan, and his father, Don Sr., still lives in Mississippi, they keep in touch. And if Don forgets to call, he says his dad has "conversations with my answering machine."

How does it feel to have a famous soap star for a son?

Don Jeffcoat, Sr: "Very good! I'm glad to see that Donny is starting to move up in his profession. I'm very proud of him. He's a very level-headed young man."

What was your dad's reaction when you told him you wanted to be an actor?

Don Jeffcoat (in his father's voice) "Boy, what the hell...? Why don't you just follow my footsteps and be a businessman?" Honestly, my dad was always real supportive of everything that I did."

When did you know your son was going to be an actor?

Don, Sr.: "Since he was about 10 years old. He was a real ham; he was just a real actor from the time he was a little boy.

What's the best piece of advice your father ever gave you?

Don: "If you're going to do it, don't give up. Be thankful, because a lot of people would love to be in your shoes."

How do you feel about watching your son in steamy love scenes?

Don, Sr.(laughs): "Sometimes, I just don't watch those. As far as I'm concerned, he can do that in private!"

What's the greatest compliment your father's ever given you?

Don: "Since I was a little kid, my dad's always told me, 'You're my favorites son!' And I'd say, 'I'm your only son.' And he'd say, 'Well, that's why you're my favorite.' I know where it comes from."