Equalizer Woodward loses his final battle
Actor Edward Woodward with 'C15' co-star Lexa Doig
Tuesday November 17 2009
EDWARD WOODWARD, the actor best known for his roles in the 1973 film 'The Wicker Man' and 'The Equalizer' television series, has died, aged 79.
Woodward achieved international fame in 1980 in the title role of Australian film 'Breaker Morant', and through the 1980s' American series 'The Equalizer', in which he played Robert McCall, a former CIA agent turned freelance investigator and vigilante.
Recently, Woodward did a short stint in 'EastEnders' as Tommy Clifford, a dying man with a secret. Barbara Windsor, who worked with Woodward on EastEnders and in musicals, said she was "deeply saddened" by his death. She added: "I have such fond memories of our time working together."
Illnesses
Woodward died in the Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, after suffering several illnesses, including pneumonia.
Robin Hardy, who directed 'The Wicker Man', said: "He was one of the greatest actors of his generation, without any question."
Woodward's agent, Janet Glass, praised Woodward on and off the screen. "Universally loved and admired through his unforgettable roles, he was equally fine and courageous in real life."
Simon Pegg, who starred with Woodward in the 2007 film 'Hot Fuzz', paid tribute on Twitter: "So sorry to hear we have lost the great Edward Woodward. Feel lucky to have worked with him." (©Independent News Service)
Irish Independent
