I think that some of the reason is because he is only 2 years older than me, and definatley outside of the image that most people think of when you think of NASCAR drivers. He is young, good-looking, has a great sense of humor, likes to have fun, he is in the next generation of drivers that is bringing a new, younger crowd of NASCAR fans.
I started liking Junior not because of his looks, but because of his personality. Being very close to my Father, I was deeply saddened, and especially impressed by the way that he handled, and still continues to handle the death of his Father. My heart ached for him during the first press interview that he did after the death of his Father. Even in his time of grief, he was still eloquent, and was able to put his mind back on racing, knowing that it is what Sr. would have wanted all of the drivers to do. I was very impressed by the way he overcame the tragedy. After seeing the interviews, and reading the columns, I just wanted him to do well racing, I thought that he deserved something good in his life after what happened to his father.
Also, I love how he thinks. He has done many interviews, been seen on MTV in two different shows, and with the help of Jade, has written a great book. All of these things give you an inside look at the type of person that he really is outside of racing. He is caring, loves his family, and can put his true feelings into words very well. He has a great love of his life, and at the same time knows that he has to balance being a young, single , attractive, wealthy guy, with the responsiblities of his job and fans.
He balances everthing well, and remains a true , this is how I am, take it or leave it, real, down to earth person. And I'll take him as he is, nothing fake, all real, and honest.
Did I forget to mention that he can drive the hell out of a racecar???

Erica