ERNIE HUDSON FOLLOW YOUR Dreams

The Quantum Leap and Ghostbusters star talks about the long road he's traveled

- Susan Hornik

Ernie Hudson is always delighted when people stop him on the street to talk about his work. "I feel very, very blessed being in projects that people share with their families," he tells Closer. "I really appreciate how much love they have for the films and TV series I've worked on. It's nice to get to that place of recognition. And, of course, everyone asks about Ghostbusters."

Beyond that blockbuster franchise, Ernie's impressive career has spanned five decades and isn't slowing down. Currently, the Michigan native co-stars in NBC's reboot of Quantum Leap, which premieres Sept. 19, and stars in and executive-produces the popular BET+ drama The Family Business. Ernie, 76, also played Lily Tomlin's love interest on the hit comedy Grace and Frankie.

Congratulations on Quantum Leap. Did you watch the original series?

I saw the show from time to time, often with my sons. Loved Scott Bakula. I think he's one of the most charming actors ever. When this new one came up, I looked at a number of the old episodes just to sort of refresh. I remember the show very vividly because I was a single dad to my first two boys. They were excited to hear I was doing this because it's something that we shared.

What have been some of your other favorite roles?

I have never had that one meaty, career-defining role, but there are so many films I have been in that were interesting. I had a lot of fun in The Hand That Rocks the Cradle and Congo. Working on the series Oz was an incredible ensemble piece. I recently did a series called City on a Hill with Kevin Bacon, Tom Fontana and that whole group who produced Oz - it was great to be back working with them. And I loved working on The Crow. Young audiences loved that film.

Of course, everyone loves Ghostbusters!