Hollywood Does Have a Human Side

I was pleasantly surprised by Dave Gardetta’s article on Jamie Masada (“A Stand-Up Guy,” Dec. 6). What seemed to be just another executive build-up piece, turned out to be an insightful article on the human side of a powerful Hollywood player.

Masada seems to keep his finger on the pulse of show business while not being oblivious to the human side of the business, something often forgotten in this town.

C. L. Fry

Studio City

*

I used to be offended by the line of hopeful neophyte comedians at the Laugh Factory on Tuesdays, waiting for brief late-night moments in the spotlight. I phoned Masada’s assistant to say that I thought all of it was done just for publicity and that it was abusive to newcomers.

Later, Masada called back and told me how he listens and talks to all the comics, how only this way of allocating audition time worked. I felt his true concern.

Reading Gardetta’s article, I learned how much more Masada has done for others less fortunate. The man is a great inspiration and role model for those of us in show business.

Willard Morgan

Hollywood

*

On Thanksgiving, Christmas and the Jewish High Holy Days, Masada opens his club to feed “comedians, actors and the community.” He turns no one away, and when contributions are offered to offset the considerable expense, he refuses them.

Now that’s not bad for a guy in a dog-eat-dog business.

Jay S. Lowy

West Hollywood