Harvey Dent

William 'Will Knowledge' Dent 

William's catchphrases were becoming very prominent within my vocabulary; they were magnetic like his personality. I believe he played the role so well that his characteristics were hidden in plain sight. I feel his role has been criminally underrated compared to other male leads. He was the anchor to the series 'Girlfriends' being such a success and portrayed a healthy example of how men and women can get along.

S6E5 

William asks Joan to accompany him to share the burden of dealing with his father. She refuses so that her sole presence can hopefully draw attention and keep the restaurant preoccupied. Throughout his visit, the attempts to express his discontent about their relationship is the evident struggle of when masculinity isn't redefined amongst the next generation.  

The expectation from his father to always produce extraordinary results due to a lack of representation in his field. When his father shut down his comments about how therapy can develop intimacy, it lead to the outburst about a childhood memory that has followed  him into adulthood. Wanting his father's approval at the expense of his own character is what so many of us face without realising. Until it is challenged, life will put you into a position where you must break free and become who you were made to be. Joan’s advice helped him build the courage to confront his father and accept himself and his father's view of life.

Finding ourselves doesn't happen when we leave home, it is when we come to an understanding with our parents to create a nurturing space for a better relationship. This is not measured by accolades or success but through our parents trusting and witnessing our character development as we go through different stages of life.

S3E12

Unable to fulfil his commitment to Maya and Jigaboo for Christmas, his apologies and efforts were rejected by the girls. As time went on withdrawal from their presence began to take its toll. At the comedy club, he seized the opportunity to perform a heartfelt piece about their absence and how it didn't take much time apart to realize their value. The performance was a noble example of appreciation and accountability for the feminine energy that brought balance, harmony and love in his life which he knew he couldn't take for granted.

S4E12 & 19

His pursuit for Donna was done with poise and patience. Though she had every right to disregard his advances in the beginning; his body language and demeanour was polite and sensible. With his wealth and status becoming more noticeable, he didn't flaunt his achievements which is common with men in his position. Although she knew he was successful, he allowed her to see his genuine nature and passion for his profession. Even when the situation between them ended, it didn't turn him unresponsive which was very commendable.

S4E6

Maya was making efforts to finish her degree despite her college testing her resolve. Lynn's been kicked out again and asks the others to lend her a hand. They quickly decline until Maya agrees to her offer, rent upfront and a month to complete her documentary proposal. Days go by and Lynn's lazy nature is on full display. An argument erupts between them where Maya confesses that she doesn't respect her because of her attitude to hard work and lack of initiative.

Lynn runs off to vent to William for support but instead, he calls her out sharply for her behaviour and lack of appreciation towards Maya. After his wise words, she realises how selfish and self-absorbed she has been. She creates her proposal after Maya's beauty and resilience and to the many women who go through similar hardship. William had a huge influence on Lynn taking responsibility for her thoughts and actions. This is an excellent example of how the power of a responsible male figure contributes to peoples lives. We are bearing witness to the symptoms being generated by the lack of healthy male guidance due to false representation, skewed views of success and hyper-masculine traits.

On paper, William is a high-value man. Not taking himself too seriously showcased what men have some difficulty bringing to light. His traits should be what we should be searching for in each other. Appreciate men that renew their character not their image, so we can build and heal more efficiently rather than superficially, causing him to take care of his woman and community.

Thank you, Mr Hayes.