Dustin Milligan keeps cool in the 90210.
For Canada’s rising star Dustin Milligan, living in Los Angeles has not only helped him appreciate the gorgeous rays, but also gain a sense of humility. Most familiar to TV viewers as Ethan Ward on the hit series 90210, the young actor is adjusting to a healthy lifestyle that he’s become extremely comfortable with. “I think [balanced living] is a combination of exercise and mindful eating as well as having fun… overall I’m in the zone for getting to a balanced life, [but] maintaining spirit and allowing to slip up sometimes is key,” discloses the 23-year-old Yellowknife, Northwest Territories native, who’s also appearing in the film Extract with Ben Affleck and Jason Bateman this year.
It’s true to say that forgiveness keeps Dustin balanced. Whether he misses a day or two of working out or indulges on a hot dog at the TV studio, Dustin doesn’t punish himself for cheating once in a while. For example, although he prefers to start his days off with exercise, “If I don’t go to the gym, I’ll go skateboarding and running instead.” Nevertheless, the Canadian actor does have a set workout, which includes cardio (for warming up and keeping his heart rate going) at three-to-four day cycles. When his shooting schedule is “erratic and unpredictable,” Dustin makes use of the studio’s fitness equipment in between scenes.
Moreover, a well-balanced diet plays a starring role in Dustin’s life, especially since, “I work really long hours and don’t have access to the right foods.” From brown rice and multi-grains to fresh fruits and vegetables, Dustin prefers to munch on anything that doesn’t contain preservatives. “I always try to buy organic food when I can [and] I try to eat whole foods,” he explains, also revealing, “I cut out a lot of dairy because I find that my stomach is too sensitive.” Not to mention, Dustin doesn’t shy away from trying out new and interesting foods. “I eat meat everyday, but I’m more into sushi and fish now,” he says. “ I love eating raw foods in general. I’m not on the raw food diet, but I appreciate its values.”
Last but not least, being a role model keeps Dustin the most grounded. “Everyone who’s in the entertainment industry is a role model. I think it’s silly that so much of young Hollywood has repeated mistakes over and over again. I think setting that example is a positive thing.” So does Dustin truly live up to his words? See for yourself: a few years ago, Dustin started the Enough Talk, Hurry Up and Do It Already Arts Scholarship Fund, a $1,000 scholarship for a student from Yellowknife’s École Sir John Franklin High School who’s been accepted into a post-secondary arts program. “I just think that we live in an age where we’re living in 15 minutes of fame. I want to encourage others to develop themselves creatively,” says Dustin.
Through his scholarship, Dustin is not only setting a good example, he’s also saying thank you to his Canadian peers, as he gives them a lot of credit for his success. As he reflects on his accomplishments on- and off-screen, there’s no doubt that he’s a balanced Canuck at heart. “I can’t believe I’m in the position I’m in — it’s all still surreal to me. To a certain extent, I’m kind of observing it.”
