Next Gen 2012: Hollywood's Fastest-Rising Stars

The Ontario-born Amell, 31, is the face -- and abs -- of The CW's DC Comics adaptation, which premiered to an impressive 4.14 million viewers and particularly strong reviews. The bow marked the network's best premiere since The Vampire Diaries' 2009 debut and earned the series a full-season order after two airings.

CAREER INSPIRATION: I was offered a full-time position at an insurance brokerage that scared the shit out of me. I quit and went into acting.

10 YEARS FROM NOW: I hope to be standing in my office looking at a big picture from Arrow's 100th episode party. I'm interested in directing and producing, too. I'd love to have the final word.

BIGGEST 2012 ACCOMPLISHMENT: Starting episode two, because Arrow was just an audition and the pilot was just a pilot.

MOVIE FIX: The People vs. Larry Flynt.

LUNCH SPOT: Cabo Cantina. Lunch usually involves a Corona.