Cousin Will

 Anthony Forwood played Will Scarlet in Walt Disney’s The Story of Robin Hood and His Merrie Men (1952), starring Richard Todd as Robin Hood. Known as “Cousin Will,” he was one of Robin’s men and brought a quiet charm and elegance to the role.

Despite being an established member of Robin’s band, Will Scarlet receives very little character growth throughout the film. We learn almost nothing about his background, personality, or relationship with Robin beyond being called his cousin. His role is largely confined to supporting the other Merrie Men, with one of his more memorable moments being the playful “christening” of Little John by throwing him into the river.

Forwood continued acting in films throughout the 1950s, including Knights of the Round Table (1953). Although his time as Will Scarlet was brief and the character was underdeveloped, his handsome appearance and natural presence made him a memorable part of Disney’s colourful vision of the legend.

Robin Hood Alive

There’s something rather sad about seeing The Death of Robin Hood (2026) — a much darker, more sombre and revisionist take on a legend many of us grew up loving.

Reviews have described the film as “brutal”, “grim” and “contemplative”, stripping away much of the “merry” spirit of the traditional legend and focusing instead on violence, guilt and atonement.

But I have to admit… I prefer my Robin Hood alive! 🏹🌳

Give me the Robin Hood of old — Sherwood Forest, Maid Marian, Little John, the Merry Men, the laughter, the adventure and that wonderful sense of freedom and justice. Those are the memories that made Robin Hood such a timeless hero.

Some legends simply belong in the forest, bow in hand, with a twinkle in their eye — alive, merry and forever young.