STAND-UP GUY

I have been a personal appearance agent for stand-up comedians for the past nine years, and fortunate enough to represent some of the most talented in our business. After reading many articles over the years about stand-ups doing sitcoms for television, I must stand up (pardon the pun) and applaud David Kronke’s article (“The Big Payoff,” July 23).

Kronke hits the nail right on the head when he points out that the networks and production companies hire these talents because of their distinctive style of comedy and their appeal with their audiences, but then put them in a sitcom format that shows their complete ignorance of the star’s comedic style. (My favorite abomination in recent years has been Kevin Meaney in “Uncle Buck” on CBS.)

This season, the networks will try again with Jeff Foxworthy, Drew Carey and Harland Williams, to name a few. These three are all superior talents that will add tremendously to the creative process, given a chance.

I humbly offer the following advice. To the stand-ups in television projects, heed Margaret Cho’s words: “Stick to your guns, even though it’s really difficult.” To the producers and networks, don’t be too arrogant or naive to utilize your stars’ experience. Listen to them, and please give Kevin Meaney another chance.

JEFFREY L. PATTERSON

Patterson & Associates

Beverly Hills

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Being a comedian currently with a development deal at NBC, I just wanted to thank Paul Reiser, Margaret Cho, Paul Provenza, Kim Fleary, Jamie Masada, Andy Nulman and Bob Crestani for their insight on what makes for a successful sitcom. Now does anyone have the number to dial for luck?

MARK PITTA

Hollywood