SANTA MONICA—In Hollywood beauty is one of those things that some say is a dime a dozen. However, once you meet actress Shiva Rose that no longer pertains to that phrase or pronouncement. The dazzling beauty is not only gorgeous but she’s smart, caring and filled with amazing attributes that makes her stand out, and everyone pays attention to her when she walks into a crowded room. This week I had the great honor and opportunity to interview Shiva and we discussed her life, career and her recent appearance on CNN’s “Larry King Live,” in which she was a guest discussing the events unfolding in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Why this matters to her will become evident. But her sincere wishes for the people of Iran comes through her beautiful eyes and she’s articulate in her belief in hope for their future, as well as America’s.

Shiva’s one of the most elegant women on the planet. Many may not know that she is the daughter of Parviz Gharibafshar, who was best known on Iranian television for over 30 years. He was dubbed in 1987 as “The Persian Johnny Carson,” by the New York Times. And Shiva certainly has her father’s personality, charisma and humor. However, having two daughters makes her want to be another type of force in the world. She takes women’s issues very seriously knowing that they directly affect women and their children.

In 1998, Shiva guest starred on “The Practice” opposite her then handsome husband Dylan McDermott. She has also starred in “Gideon’s Crossing” in 2001, “The Division” in 2003 and in 2007 made guest appearances on “CSI: Miami” as well as “Las Vegas.” But in 2005 the striking beauty made a name for herself as a great film actress in the movie titled, “David and Layla.” The film was a real life story of a couple by the same name, which was written and directed by talented film maker Jay Jonroy.

Mr. Jonroy says of his film: “Sparks fly when a Jew and a Muslim fall in love in New York. David, a TV host of ‘Sex & Happiness,’ becomes smitten with the voluptuous Layla—a mysterious, sensual dancer. Layla turns out to be a Muslim refugee. Teased by specious tips from his ironic French cameraman, David madly pursues Layla. This sets off a veiling and unveiling of the similarities—and contrasts—of their ancient cultures. David's lust grows into love as he discovers in stunning Layla, a sensitive, intelligent, war survivor with an ancient rich culture that echoes his own culture. But their families are dead set against this unlikely romance. Faced with deportation, Layla must choose: Muslim American Dr. Ahmad or Jewish American David? Will David and Layla follow their hearts to blast through centuries of religious animosity?”

Hollywood actresses of all faiths and physical types wanted this coveted role, but after seeing Ms. Rose, Jonroy cast her immediately in this gripping story of love and family. Shiva Rose has not had many of the same experiences being an American, but she knows firsthand how family, religion and distrust can rip people apart. Her homeland of Iran is currently struggling with what many feel could be the new Iranian or Persian revolution. But after seeing Shiva on “The Young and the Restless” a few months back, I told her that I wanted to interview her whenever she could clear her hectic schedule. Shiva is more than just a mother and actress, she’s one of the most philanthropic members of the Los Angeles County community and when not taking care of her beautiful daughters, Colette and Charlotte Rose, or busy working, you can find her lending a helping hand to those in need amongst us.

I don’t know what was more breathtaking this week while interviewing the lady. Whether it was watching the ripples and waves the Pacific Ocean from the Santa Monica pier or looking at an actress who is just as well known for her inner beauty as well as what you see on the surface. The best part of this job is that working for Canyon News, I can often times do both at the same time. Here’s Shiva Rose in her own words, as we did a question and answer session on Tuesday afternoon in Santa Monica.

Q-You recently spoke out on CNN's “Larry King Live” about the situation in Iran. Do you still have family in that country?

A-“I do have family in Iran, I was raised in Iran for the first 10 years of my life and my father's side of the family are there. I haven't seen my uncle, aunt or cousins in over 30 years.”

Q-How did you feel when you saw the images over the television and in print of the people of Iran standing up to fight for their rights and for democracy?

A-“I felt a myriad of emotions watching the situation unfold in Iran. I was so proud and inspired by watching the people there stand up to fraudulent methods and the hypocrisy that they have to endure day after day, but I was also very fearful for their safety. I deeply connected with the Iranians and their frustration. I was very active speaking out during the Bush administration here, but of course here you may just get arrested, while in Iran your life may end.”

Q-You are an advocate for human rights. What can people do to help the people of Iran in their time of need?

A-“I'm not certain what will happen in Iran. I suppose we just have to support the people from a distance because I definitely don't think the U.S. should intervene.”

Q-You starred in the lead role in the critically acclaimed film "David and Layla." Was it a difficult role to play?

A-“Playing Layla in ‘David and Layla’ felt effortless. I was playing a Kurdish refugee and the Kurdish culture and Iranian culture have lots of parallels. I also know what it's like to leave your home with only the belongings on your back. I also identified with Layla as an artist who chooses love over religion.”

Q- Did you meet the real life couple that the film is about?

A-“I did meet the real David and Layla and they were lovely. It was refreshing to see a couple that were still in love after so many years and trials and tribulations.”

Q-What is the actual story of "David and Layla"?

A-“The film David and Layla is essentially a love story between a Muslim refugee from Iraq and a Jewish T.V. personality from New York. It juxtaposes the two cultures and ultimately you realize the common thread between the two. I'm happy to show a positive outcome of those two religions together.”

Q-I loved your cameo recently on "The Young and the Restless." Will you be making a return to the show? Fans raved about how gorgeous you are.

A-“I enjoyed ‘Young and the Restless’ and would love to return. It was the first time I portrayed myself and that was a bit odd considering I had to throw out all my preparation work I usually do. I have to say playing yourself is more difficult because you really feel exposed.”

Q-Any other projects coming up you can tell us about?

A-“This September I will be acting in a play that I've written at Pacific Resident Theater in Venice. This is a dream come true since I have been working on the play for over five years. The theater is one of the best in LA and I have been a part of it for over a decade. It is my most favorite place on earth and such great work comes out of there.”

Q-I know you are a busy mother. What are you planning for the summer?

A-“My daughters and I just returned from Italy and are now just enjoying being here swimming and taking walks in the evenings.”

Q-Do you have a special charity that means a lot to you?

A-“My most favorite charity is VIP http://www.heartvip.org/ that helps abused women and children in Los Angeles. I'm on the board of HEART which raises money for VIP.”

A rose by any other name is not Shiva. Spending her valuable and precious time with me this week was an honor that I can say meant a lot. Seeing her joy and excitement when talking about her charity work, acting and, especially, her two beautiful daughters is enlightening and uplifting. For those of you who haven’t been lucky enough to see her on stage, we’ll remind you closer to opening night when her play will debut. I ended the interview with the following phrase, “Khayli mammon Shiva Rose and Ghabel na-dareh,” which means in English, “Thank you very much and you are welcome.”