I admit it, I have a “man crush” on Edward Woodward. He’s just so damn cool that it’s simply impossible not to be impressed.

To those of you who don’t know who he is – I’m sorry, I just can’t help you. You’re clearly lost in a world of Lady Gargar and Kayne West with no hope of rescue. Just stop reading now and go hang out at the mall, mkay?

The rest of you however will no doubt remember a time (not long ago I should add) where acting was even more important than good looks. Mr Woodward was lucky however: he had both.

That was a different time, made of different standards which have since faded out throughout the 80’s and 90’s.
‘Twas a time where people weren’t voted out of kitchens, houses, or off islands.
A time when actors relied on more than simple one liners and make-up-for-it crash-bang-whiz cinematography. It was a world where only the best actors stood out, and it was a world where Edward Woodward was the king.

I offer my condolences to the likes of Matt Damon, Johnny Depp, and Keanu Reeves. Technically, they too are categorized as actors, but they simply can’t hold a candle to the legend that is Edward Woodward.
Any of those lads mentioned above would have to spend twenty minutes verbally vomiting into a boom microphone – just to convey half the sentiment of one of Woodward’s short, meaningful glances.

Sadly, the man famous for being able to deliver intricate, three-dimensional characters to that box in your living room passed away last year. The world is at a loss, and we are fast running out of real actors.

In order to celebrate the man who brought shows like Callan, The Equalizer, and (the lesser known, but stunningly written) “1990” to life, I propose July 5 will now be Edward Woodward Day.

This day gives you the chance to proudly display your high viewing standards, by imitating one of his many awesome roles. Perhaps you could act like the overwhelmed policeman-turned-sacrificial offering from The Wicker Man. Maybe you’d prefer to take on the rightfully righteous role from Breaker Morant.

Or better yet, why not just spend the day watching what real acting is by hiring out a couple of his best movies or TV shows. Start with Callan and perhaps finish with the sci-fi show Crusade (though be warned; he has a minor role).

During intermission, why have a listen to one of his twelve recorded studio albums (he just happened to be a talented tenor as well), or concentrate on his detailed vocal acting throughout one of his four audio books.

I must warn you though, watching the genius that is Edward Woodward will have it’s consequences.
Once you get a taste for what real acting is, the usual tripe spewed into the airwaves each day simply won’t be good enough and your TV will become a dust catcher – just like ours.

See you on July the 5th.