A few months ago, Carlos Pena was preparing to study music at the Boston Conservatory. Moving to Hollywood and auditioning for roles was not a part of his plan. But, plans change.

"Sometimes you've got to jump on the train and ride with it," says Pena, who stars in the upcoming Nickelodeon show "Big Time Rush."

The show about four best friends from Minnesota who get a break at musical stardom debuts in early 2010. An hour-long sneak peak of the show airs at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, on Nickelodeon.

Pena, 20, was reluctant to audition for the show because he was looking forward to studying music.

At his manager's urging, Pena sent Nickelodeon producers his acting demo. A month later, Pena had the role of Carlos Garcia on "Big Time Rush."

The actor describes his character as "the dynamite of the group," the kind of guy who's fun-loving and honest.

"He has no filter," says Pena. "He's the tough guy with the fun personality. He has everyone's back."

Pena says he's thrilled to be on the show and living in Hollywood, his home for the past three months.

He's mostly excited that "Big Time Rush" means he gets to act and sing, two of his childhood passions.

"It's the best of both worlds," he says. "I'm thrilled to be on this show. I think audiences will love it, too. It's unlike any other show."

More Information

Carlos Pena en breve
Who is he: Born Aug. 15, 1989, to a Dominican mother and a Spanish/Venezuelan father, the up-and-coming singer and actor stars in the new Nickelodeon show 'Big Time Rush,' scheduled for an early 2010 premiere. An hour-long sneak peak of the show airs at 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, on Nickelodeon.

Where you've seen him: Besides guest spots on 'Judging Amy' and 'Summerland,' Pena was a contestant on the MTV reality show 'Making Menudo.'

His early start: Pena appeared in national commercials for Super Soaker Water Gun and was featured on packaging for the product.