Sgt. Howie won't ever be forgotten

Edward Woodward, who gave such an effectively memorable performance in The Wicker Man (1973), loses his battle with illness, aged 79.

By Matt Holmes / June 24, 2011

Has there ever been a more virtuous protagonist in the history of film that has suffered such an atheistic-valued, appallingly gut-wrenching and disturbingly sick exit as Sgt. Tom Howie, played by Edward Woodward in the 1973 low-budget British horror classic The Wicker Man?

Woodward's performance was so intense, so memorable and so effective... everytime I saw him outside of this film, I had to double take. I forgot he was only an actor, and wasn't really dead. I would guess not. I certainly can't think of any, not any leading or scratch that, any major character in any film that has succumbed so horribly. Woodward played the part with so much honesty and righteousness, playing a deep man of religious faith who is tested at every corner, by ever person, with the forbidden fruits of life. SPOILER TAG: THE FOLLOWING VIDEO IS THE END OF THE ORIGINAL WICKER MAN...

Woodward's performance in The Wicker Man is without question, one of the best ever given by a leading man in this genre.

Edward Woodward has died, aged 79 according to the BBC. Thanks for the memories.