Be My Valentine

On the rising tide of a new year, there is a sea of brilliant stars shimmering with talent, stars floating softly down to stage to be recognized for all the light of inspiration that they shined upon us. Brilliance can hardly sum all the experience of one defined, of one that struggled to arrive to where they now stand. Dedication is a better term for all they give to become so much more. Now, at the People's Choice Awards 2011, it is our turn to thank them, the men and women, whose footprints give us hope to chase and follow, so that we could one day stand beside them. But for all the leading men nominated in their well-deserved categories... Wouldn't it be a sweet dream to go on one date with them and discover the man hidden deep beneath character?

5. and 4. Leonardo Dicaprio/Robert Downey Jr.

It is well-known that these two actors are simply dynamic. Any character given is the character that they become. Their eyes spark with depth, intrigue, and their persona overwhelms the screen, washing over us like a wave to sand. And we are pulled in, drinking in the stories that they spin, the action that they deliver, but have we ever wondered to look behind the curtain to see who truly lies on the other side? What captivates me like a moth to a flame is the dedication that both pour into role, the heroes that they become, and the emotions that both deliver when faced with tragedy or triumph. They melt like sweet chocolate, molding into unforgettable roles, and we return over and over again not just for their movies but for them. And they deserve an award for their achievements and inspiration, for giving those wishing to follow them hope and determination, and for giving us women someone to dream about.

3. Jeffrey Donovan (USA's Burn Notice)

Christmas came early with the return of USA's Burn Notice. Despite the arctic chill outside, it's hot in here, and the show is burning across the sandy shore. Intensity rises another notch through the set gaze of Jeffrey Donovan, a.k.a. Michael Westen. His strong muscles flex beneath his shirt, and like a brilliant sun, he flashes a disarming smile, melting the cold off our heart. A conflicted character, both charming and deadly is ignited through the heart and soul of one ready to stand and deliver, and we haunt his every move through conflict and drama. His voice is soothing like the sound of the ocean flowing within a sea shell, and he carries us across the deep and into his character. But who is the man hidden beneath the burned spy? We look for a glimpse, a reflection bouncing off his pair of sunglasses, and his eyes lock on target, grinning from ear to ear. And we no longer care but enjoy the ride.

2. Jensen Ackles (WB's Supernatural)

What defines a hero? Is it those blue tights and red cape? Is it the conflict and drama that challenges them? Is it the sacrifice that they will have to make, saving the world from destruction, or is it the actor that drives them? Who would Dean Winchester be, if not for Jensen Ackles? His deep voice strikes a chord in our heart, making us listen. His eyes are the windows to his soul, letting us see all that he truly is. His determination and dedication give light to a character covered in darkness, and his strength shines as crisis and tragedy bite at his heels. But when not dancing with the Supernatural, taking a breath of fresh air, who would we find? An ordinary man? Do we dare peel away the layers and layers of mystery, layers that mold into the essence of character, a hero, who pulls us in and holds us steady, even in his darkest hour? From here to eternity will we forever be his, chasing the trail of Dean and Sam Winchester played by Jared Padalecki.

1. Robin Dunne (SyFy's Sanctuary)

Would it be a sweet dream or beautiful nightmare to walk into a world beyond imagination? What challenges would we face to create the character that we would become? Would we remain intense, focused on the task ahead, or would our sense of humor slip in through the cracks? With each passing storyline, would we dig deep, discovering more of the man leading us further into adventure, Dr. Will Zimmerman played by Robin Dunne. He seems like the boy next door, sweet and caring, and a gentle smile toys at his lips. His eyes are filled with depth and compassion, and he moves with grace across the green screen and into the great beyond. And we follow, mesmerized and wanting to know more, but if given a chance to know who lies beneath character, who would we truly find? And what would we talk about? Would it be the simple chatter of fan-based fascination or a more in-depth talk of working with imagination? Who knows, but at least, we find him waiting to take us by hand and lead us once again into a world that one could only dream of.