And that was gratifying to know.

But when I walked into his office, he said, Let me call up my wife.

Shes not going to believe whos here.

The West Wing

NBC

I was just taken aback.

I didnt believe I could have that much impact on somebody of his stature.

It was a wonderful meeting.

And I got to really, really appreciate the man.

ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY: What was your experience like onThe West Wing?

And then the cast was just incredible with Martin Sheen and so many other wonderful actors.

The entire project was quality top to bottom.

So, I immensely enjoyed that.

Is there a particular episode or scene that has stuck with you over the years?

Well, they were all so good.

I guess it would be when the president ordered a hit on some of our adversaries in other countries.

It was a very serious moment.

I enjoyed working with him immensely.

He said, “You even remember the dialogue?”

And I said, “Of course I do.”

So we had a wonderful relationship as well.

Youve played many memorable characters do you find that fans bring up Fitz when they talk to you?

But I’m always overjoyed when people do ask me.

I know it sounds superficial, but I loved the uniform.

I was a member of the New Jersey state National Guard at a very early age.

I’ve always had a great deal of admiration for those men and women that serve.

Finally, my most important question for you: Are you still a hippie?

Am I still a hippie?

I’m surprised you were able to get through it.

I haven’t hit 93 yet, so we’ll have to wait a few years for that.

So far, so good.

What was the inspiration for your country music career?

And he arranged for it at his studio.

And that’s what came out of it.

It didn’t go platinum.

I dont even think it went cardboard.

[Laughs] But I enjoyed it, that’s the main thing.

Finally, will you be involved with theComing to Americasequel?

I shot down in Atlanta at the Tyler Perry Studios.

It was a joy.

Do you ever look back on your career and think, Damn, I did that!?

For more onThe West Wingcast reunion and EW’s 30th anniversary,order the September issue ofEntertainment Weeklynow.