2008 has been a huge year for 13-year old actor/singer Luke Benward. From starring in Disney’s mega-hit movie Minutemen to co-headlining the iShine tour, it’s been a complete whirlwind of events.

For those of you who don’t know who Luke is, let me give you a quick bio. Luke’s first major on-screen appearance happened at age 7, when he played a role in country legend Martina McBride’s "Concrete Angel" music video. From there he had a minor role in the popular 2002 movie We Were Soldiers, followed three years later by a part as Stevie Dewberry in Because of Winn-Dixie in 2005, a lead role in 2006’s How To Eat Fried Worms, and another lead in this past year’s Minutemen, co-starring with fellow Christian actor and Disney star Jason Dolley. 2008 also found Luke starring in Disney’s Mostly Ghostly. Aside from acting, Luke’s music career has taken a jumpstart this year with help from the iShine tour, and we should expect it to grow even more as we head into 2009.

I recently had a chance to speak with Luke, and judging from his responses, it’s easy to see why he’s one of the biggest upcoming actors and singers in the industry…

What’s it like to be co-headlining the iShine tour?

Well, I get to meet a lot of kids. I love meeting fans, even if I don’t have long to talk to them. I love taking pictures and learning things about them. Also, I think it is a good example in God’s name. Most of the kids that come are around my age or younger so it makes it easier to connect with them on that level.

How would you define the genre of music you sing?

It has a popish vibe like the kind you would hear on Radio Disney

Can we expect a full length album from you anytime soon?

Yes. Probably in 2009.

Are there any artists/bands that you’d like to record with someday?

Maybe Maroon 5 or Miley Cyrus. I would like to record with Maroon 5 because I like the vibe of their voice and the presence they would bring to the song. Miley Cyrus because I know her. She is a very talented singer and has been so blessed. Plus, she has a lot of fans.

Are there any artists in particular that inspire your music?

Not really anyone in particular. I hope to learn guitar and write some of my songs in the future.

Do you have any film/television productions coming up?

I am working on a movie called Dear John. It is based on a book by Nicholas Sparks. It is a love story about a guy who is a soldier and a girl when they meet on a beach. I am the girl’s friend’s son, who is autistic. I am not severely autistic; I am a high functioning autistic boy.

Is there a particular actor/actress in specific that you’d like to work with?

I would like to work with Mel Gibson [from We Were Soldiers] again, because when I worked with him the first time, I was too young, so I don’t remember what he was like. All I do remember is that he was really nice and great with kids. He is a very good actor.

What kind of pressures do you face with fame? How do you deal with them?

My parents keep me humble and remind me that I can’t do it alone. I recognize that it's just a job and that it's clearly God’s will that I'm where I'm at. That is the only reason I am here.

How has God been working in your life lately?

In sixth and seventh grade, I was struggling with being accepted. People would tell me I was annoying and it didn’t help, it just hurt. But now I realize that I don’t have to impress anyone but God, and to do that I just have to be myself.

What are some of your other interests?

I play football for my school team. I play wide receiver and cornerback. But I have played different positions before, such as linebacker, running back and quarterback. This was my fifth year.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I am not sure, but more than likely going to school playing football, going on tour a lot more and making movies. As you can tell, I don’t like to be bored or to be in one place for too long.

Any final comments?

Dream big!