The mere mention of the name of this delectable man brings a broad smile to my lips. What is not to like about Richard Armitage? With his towering, lean, and muscular frame, enigmatic blue eyes, razor- sharp nose, and that swoon worthy smile, he is a god amongst men. And to top that, he is a seriously gifted actor.

I have been dreaming of Richard ever since I caught a fleeting glimpse of him on television. The memorable face was instantly etched in my mind and I started frantically enquiring about the man who owned that face. Finally, I discovered that it was Richard Armitage in the BBC production of North and South.

Obviously, I had to watch the film. And what a treat it was for me! The film was crafted elegantly and truthfully, the drama was compelling, the characters were well drawn, and the love story between the main protagonists was fraught with romantic tension. I loved every moment of it and I particularly loved watching Richard, who played the dark, brooding, and entirely irresistible John Thornton. I was awed by his intense voice. As Thornton, Richard smoldered with suppressed emotions and only allowed momentary glimpses into his soul through expressive eyes and rare, almost beatific smiles.

Immediately, I watched Robin Hood, where Richard was Guy of Gisborne. I wondered who could back the hero when the villain was so much more preferable. Armitage, with his long dark hair and tormented eyes, was devastatingly handsome as Guy. He was culpable but so driven and anguished that even as an antagonistic character, he attracted sympathy. Richard shed his powerful persona to play the low-key Harry Kennedy in The Vicar of Dibley, but even there he oozed charm.

It is just divine to know that there is someone like Armitage, not just beautiful and talented but modest as well. I read his messages to his admirers and appreciate his good humor and sincerity. It is evident that he loves his work. But, I love Richard Armitage most because of his ability to become the character he portrays. I can clearly picture him now, as my favorite Thornton, arrogant, vulnerable, intense, and unbelievably handsome (and if I had my way, streched out on a big beach towel…)