Adam Rodriguez (Eric Delko) may not have been familiar with CSI before he landed his Miami role, but after three years on the show, he has come to understand why so many are watching.

"Innately, everybody has a morbid curiosity. And beyond that, it's the same thing that's made Sherlock Holmes popular -- people tune in to solve the mystery every week. They want to be a part of it, watch it unfold, and watch these characters they've invested in," Rodriguez told Michele Hatty of USA Weekly. But beyond the mystery, the actor is also enchanted by the blood and gore. "I'm fascinated. It's cool how realistic our special-effects people make things look."

Excluding his role on CSI: Miami, fans may recognize Rodriguez for his past television gigs, which include the series Brooklyn South, All Souls and Roswell. But previous to that, the actor never imagined he would end up working in Hollywood. "I'm the first male in my family not to serve at least one four-year term in the military," said Rodriguez, whose dream to become an Air Force pilot got shattered due to bad eyesight. Fortunately, it all worked out. "I got involved in acting and realized this is what I really want."

Rodriguez has also realized the importance of his culture. The New York native, who is three-quarters Puerto Rican and one-quarter Cuban, laments not being fluent in Spanish, but has recently bought a house in Puerto Rico and wishes to one day visit Cuba. Deep down, though, Rodriguez remains a New Yorker and appreciates the diversity the city has to offer. "I've been fortunate to have grown up around all different types of cultures and people. It's really made me open to people and the world. I'm appreciative of that."

To read the full interview, which includes quotes from Rodriguez's friends, visit USA Weekly.

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