SATURDAY LETTERS : UNDEREXPOSURE

I can fully appreciate the almost impossible task that beset the editors of ABC’s recent tribute (May 18) to Hollywood’s 100th birthday.

However, it befuddles me to wonder how they managed to “squeeze” in 10-minute segments saluting John Wayne, stuntmen and an unfortunate ‘40s musical parody and not “squeeze” in one frame of footage of Bette Davis, Judy Garland, Walt Disney, Fred Astaire and/or Alfred Hitchcock. Were these blatant oversights intentional or ignorant mistakes?

I noticed plenty of exposure was given to TV personalities and rock ‘n’ roll stars (many of whom have never even appeared in a major motion picture). And speaking of exposure, Debbie Allen clearly won up front in that category.

As for the lowest moment TV has ever sunk to in its brief but brassy history, it has to be Patti LaBelle’s crazed rendition of “When You Wish Upon a Star.” (Wasn’t Ozzie Osbourne free that evening?)

JAMES H. PEARSALL

Los Angeles