The Equalizer is an American crime drama television series that aired on CBS from 1985 to 1989. Created by Michael Sloan and Richard Lindheim, the show centered on Robert McCall, a former intelligence officer turned vigilante who used his skills to help people in need. Played by the distinguished British actor Edward Woodward, McCall worked as a private troubleshooter, taking on cases that the authorities couldn’t—or wouldn’t—handle. The series became a hit thanks to its gripping storylines, complex characters, and the moral dilemmas it posed about justice and redemption.
Set against the gritty backdrop of 1980s New York City, The Equalizer captivated audiences with its blend of action, suspense, and intrigue. McCall’s quest for personal redemption, coupled with his desire to make amends for his shadowy past, gave the show emotional depth. This, combined with the show’s intelligent writing and top-notch performances, made The Equalizer one of the standout crime dramas of the 1980s.
The Premise of The Equalizer
At the heart of The Equalizer is Robert McCall, a former operative for an unnamed intelligence agency (implied to be similar to the CIA) who now offers his services to those in desperate situations. After years of covert work and morally ambiguous missions, McCall becomes disillusioned with his past and seeks to atone for the wrongs he committed during his time in the agency. He publishes a cryptic advertisement in the newspaper: “Got a problem? Odds against you? Call the Equalizer.” This ad offers hope to those who have nowhere else to turn, and it marks the beginning of McCall’s journey as a vigilante who fights for justice.
McCall uses his vast experience in surveillance, combat, and intelligence gathering to help people deal with a variety of threats, ranging from street crime to organized gangs and corrupt officials. While most of his clients are ordinary citizens facing extraordinary dangers, McCall’s own history and connections often draw him back into the world of espionage, where he encounters former colleagues and adversaries from his time as a government agent.
Throughout the series, McCall is portrayed as a man seeking redemption, trying to balance the harsh realities of his past with his desire to do good in the present. His personal life is often marked by strained relationships, particularly with his estranged son Scott, with whom McCall struggles to reconnect. This adds a layer of emotional complexity to the show, as McCall grapples with his guilt and the consequences of his former life.
- Odds Against you? Call The Equalizer
- the Equalizer is a former veteran of the British Army and the CIA with a shadowy past
- He breaks away from the company after getting disillusioned with his cloak-and-dagger life
- He seeks atonement in the newspaper
- Edward Woodward plays McCall to perfection, as a dark,steely middle-aged man hardened by the life of espionage,yet allowing compassion to seep through when helping those in need
- McCall (Denzel Washington) has put his mysterious past behind him and is dedicated to living a new, quiet life
- But when he meets Teri (Chloë Grace Moretz), a young girl under the control of ultra-violent Russian gangsters, he can’t stand idly by
- Armed with hidden skills that allow him to serve vengeance against anyone who would brutalize the helpless, McCall comes out of his self-imposed retirement and finds his desire for justice reawakened
- If someone has a problem, if the odds are stacked against them, if they have nowhere else to turn, McCall will help
- He is The Equalizer
Main Characters
The success of The Equalizer can be attributed not only to its compelling plots but also to its well-rounded and engaging characters. The show is anchored by Edward Woodward’s powerful portrayal of Robert McCall, but the supporting cast also plays a significant role in adding depth and texture to the narrative.
- Robert McCall (Edward Woodward): McCall is a complex character—a man with a violent and secretive past who now uses his skills to help those in need. McCall’s calm, measured demeanor contrasts with the often dangerous and chaotic situations he finds himself in. He is a seasoned professional who is both compassionate and deadly when necessary. Woodward’s portrayal brought a sense of gravitas and sophistication to the role, making McCall a memorable and iconic figure in 1980s television.
- Mickey Kostmayer (Keith Szarabajka): Mickey is a former colleague of McCall’s from his days in the intelligence agency and one of his most trusted allies. A tough, streetwise operative, Mickey often assists McCall on missions that require backup or additional manpower. His character brings a sense of camaraderie to the show, as he shares McCall’s desire to right wrongs while also being more comfortable with the darker aspects of their work.
- Control (Robert Lansing): Control is McCall’s former handler in the intelligence agency and represents McCall’s continued connection to his past. While their relationship is often strained, Control occasionally enlists McCall’s help in dealing with sensitive government operations. Control embodies the morally ambiguous nature of the intelligence world, and his character adds tension to McCall’s efforts to leave his past behind.
- Scott McCall (William Zabka): Scott is Robert McCall’s estranged son, with whom he has a complicated and difficult relationship. Scott resents his father’s past and the years of absence that defined their relationship, leading to tension and emotional distance. As the series progresses, McCall tries to repair his relationship with Scott, but their interactions are often fraught with unresolved issues. Scott’s character highlights McCall’s personal struggles and the sacrifices he made during his career in intelligence.
Themes of Justice and Redemption
One of the central themes of The Equalizer is justice, particularly the idea that those who are vulnerable and powerless can find someone to fight for them. McCall represents a force of justice for those who have been abandoned by the system, and his missions often involve helping people who are facing corrupt officials, abusive partners, or criminal organizations. The show frequently explores the failings of traditional institutions like the police and government, emphasizing McCall’s role as an outside agent who delivers justice when all other avenues have failed.
Redemption is another key theme. McCall’s actions as the Equalizer are driven by his desire to make amends for his past life as a covert operative, where he was often complicit in morally dubious actions. His guilt over the things he’s done fuels his need to help others, and throughout the series, he struggles with the ethical questions surrounding his role as a vigilante. While he helps those in need, McCall is constantly reminded of the darker side of his abilities and the violence he can inflict.
The show also highlights the psychological toll of a life spent in espionage and violence. McCall’s introspective nature and occasional moral dilemmas give viewers insight into the inner workings of a man who is haunted by his past but determined to make a positive impact in the present.
Action and Realism
While The Equalizer features plenty of action, it is known for its more grounded and realistic approach to the genre compared to other 1980s action shows. McCall is not invincible—he frequently relies on strategy, intelligence, and careful planning rather than brute force to resolve conflicts. The show emphasizes suspense and tension over flashy, over-the-top action scenes. When violence is used, it is often depicted as a last resort and is portrayed with consequences, rather than as glorified or gratuitous.
The series also explores the use of technology and surveillance in McCall’s missions, reflecting the real-world intelligence work that influenced the show. From setting up elaborate traps for his enemies to employing sophisticated listening devices, McCall’s methods underscore the calculated nature of his work.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The Equalizer became a defining show of the 1980s, thanks to its unique blend of action, drama, and moral complexity. Edward Woodward’s portrayal of Robert McCall resonated with audiences, and the show’s focus on personal justice and redemption set it apart from other action series of the time. The character of McCall, with his calm demeanor and sharp intellect, became an iconic figure in the vigilante genre.
The series also inspired a 2014 film adaptation starring Denzel Washington as Robert McCall, which introduced the character to a new generation of viewers. The success of the film led to a sequel and a 2021 television reboot starring Queen Latifah as the new Equalizer, Robyn McCall, further cementing the franchise’s lasting impact on pop culture.
With its sophisticated storytelling, gripping action, and exploration of moral dilemmas, The Equalizer remains a timeless and influential show that continues to resonate with audiences who seek stories of justice, redemption, and the power of one individual to make a difference.
