A Letter A Day

A prolific writer/producer responds

2008-03-08T23:22:00.006-05:00

Stephen J. Cannell

Reference Date:

OK, my procrastination comes into play again. This is a post I should have written a long time ago.

Back in May of 2007, Stephen J. Canell answered my letter in a most unique way. He posted his reply via video journal on his website to be viewed by the general public. I've added a link to the reply at the end of this post.

In his 40 year career in show business, Mr. Cannell has created and produced such television classics as "the Rockford Files" "The A Team" "21 Jump Street" and "The Greatest American Hero." He has also written 11 novels. Quite an amazing man, and a true inspiration.

This is an abbreviated version of what he had to say:

His simple lessons in life:

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Sounds cliched, but they are truly words to live by.

All of his shows have been positive experiences and he's cared about the people he's worked with. This has made things easier.

His daily habit for success: Getting up everyday at 4AM (weekends included), and writing for six hours straight.

You'd be surprised at how much this "forward motion" produces.

I sent him a thank you email immediately.

Here is the link to his video journal: http://www.cannell.com/videoQA.php?s=579&k=7a889ec06339b62f870cd44de88d3336#

A "High Flying" Reply

2008-02-29T23:28:00.004-05:00

Gary C. Kelly

Reference Date: May 21st

I don't fly very often, but when I do, I try to stick with airlines that have a good reputation and record. One of the best is Southwest Airlines.

I wrote to the CEO of Southwest to compliment him on his company, as well as to ask for advice. This was the reply I got. While it wasn't from Mr. Kelly himself, I'm not going to classify it as a non-reply because it was two pages and personally written by the "Writing Representative of Labor and Employee Relations." This is what it said:

Dear Mr. Lucas,

Although I certainly respect that you may have hoped to hear from Gary directly, I hope you can appreciate that his busy schedule prevents him from being able to personally respond in a timely manner. Thus, he asked that I do so on his behalf-I hope you're not too disappointed. Gary is humbled by your kind comments and for your request for his guidance on your journey to success.

Although we don't know much about the entertainment industry, I'll let you in on some of the things we look for in a Southwest Employee. Honesty, hard work, and treating others with respect are important values for Employees at our Company, and I believe important in any career endeavor. The best way to discover success is to find a job you love and "throw yourself' into it. It's not about the title or the money; it's about doing what you love and about which you are passionate. Then, it just doesn't feel like work and you will find that success is easily attained because you are completely committed to what you're doing.

Like any business, some days are challenging, especially in light of higher fuel costs and when our Frontline folks and valued Customers are subjected to travel difficulties (such as adverse weather conditions which inherently cause disruptions to our schedules). Some adversities (like weather) are just simply out of our control, but every decision that Gary and our Leaders make have our Employees and Customers' best interests at heart. Being the CEO of a Company like Southwest is extremely rewarding to Gary, because there are 33,000+ Employees who make him so proud to be a part of democratizing the skies and giving our Customers more Freedom to travel-we are committed to offering the most friendly, efficient service, on frequent, ontime flights, at an affordable price to the best destinations.

Southwest Airlines has always been staunchly conservative in our business practices, while still being incredibly generous with our low fares. The fact is, everything about our Company is structured to maintain low costs in order to deliver low fares, while supporting the interests and investments of our Employees and Shareholders. Our utmost hope is a long and prosperous reign of consistently being the low-fare Leader. Nothing would please us more than to continue making airline travel, simple, efficient, and affordable for anyone who wishes to fly.

We wish you nothing but the best on your life's journey. Thanks again for asking for Gary's advice and for letting him know how much you admire him as a Leader. You are very special to us, and we look forward to welcoming your family onboard soon.

Sincerely,

Laura B.

Writing Representative
Labor & Employee Relations

I sent them a thank you the next day

A well respected actor replies

2008-02-29T22:56:00.005-05:00

Norman Lloyd

Reference date: September 10th

One of my life goals is to be listed among the notable people born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey. The list is a good one, including people like Nathan Lane, Martha Stewart and Flip Wilson. One of the more interesting members of this club is a man who has spent more than seven decades in show business as an actor, director and producer.

Norman Lloyd is probably best known as Dr. Auschlander on the classic 1980's medical drama "St. Elsewhere." In his early career, he was part of the original Mercury Theater Company run by Orson Welles. He also starred in Alfred Hitchcock's film "Saboteur" where he had a famous scene hanging from the crown of the Statue of Liberty.

He was, like many actors, unfairly blacklisted during the Communist witch hunts of the 1950's, so his acting career came to a halt. Alfred Hitchcock helped him by making him a producer/director on "Alfred Hitchcock Presents."

Since St. Elsewhere, Mr. Lloyd has continued working (into his 90's!!) as a guest star in many TV shows and movies. I wrote to ask him for advice, and this was his kind reply:

Dear Mr. Lucas,

You ask if there is any advice I can pass on to an actor. It is this: MEAN EVERY WORD YOU SAY.

This was the advice given to me in 1932 by our greatest actor at the time, Alfred Lunt. I pass it on to you.

Sincerely Yours,

Norman Lloyd

I sent him a thank you note the next day.

Retailers respond (multiple post)

2008-01-01T01:19:00.000-05:00

Well, the busy holiday season has just ended and retail stores are taking a deep breath. Though it's a chaotic time for them, I was pleased to recieve letters from the CEO's of three major stores in the midst of the active months. Here are their responses, in no particular order. (I sent a thank you card to all of them.)

Steve Sadove (Saks 5th Avenue CEO)

Reference Date: November 24th

As a New York City tour guide, I am often asked about the best places to shop in the city. My answer is Saks Fifth Avenue. This landmark first opened its doors in 1867. For 140 years, Saks has stood for excellence and has provided a five star shopping experience.

Their holiday windows have always been a "must see" in December, and a few years ago, they added to the sason by adorning the outside of their flagship 5th Avenue store with giant illuminated snowflakes that dance in synch with the "Carol of the Bells." It's a thrill to watch thousands of people stand in awe as the show plays.

For this, and many other reasons, I wrote to the CEO of Saks, Steve Sadove. This was his reply:

Dear Mr. Lucas:

Thank you for your interest and for your kind words in describing me as a role model and inspiration. I want to wish you success in your endeavors, and I sincerely hope that as you pursue and perfect your craft, we will all have the pleasure of seeing your name in lights as you achieve success as an actor.

While your questions are specific, time dictates that my answers must be general and brief I consider it a privilege to be associated with Saks Fifth A venue and the team that comprises this organization; I take great pride in working side by side with this talented group of people every day. Wherever I have worked, I have always embraced the philosophy of allowing my team to pursue excellence, offering some direction, guidance and support, while trying very hard to foster my colleagues' independent thinking and creativity. Needless to say, when people are happy with their work environment, they will work at their best, and all involved in the effort will benefit.

I hope that in some way this addresses your questions. Once again, I want to wish you the best in your own personal pursuit of success, and excellence.

Sincerely,

Steve Sadove

Howard Lester (Pottery Barn CEO)

Reference Date: October 3rd

Howard Lester is the CEO of Wlliams-Sonoma, the parent company of Pottery Barn. I live just next door to Paramus, NJ, one of the biggest retail areas in the world. The Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma there are constantly packed. I wrote to Mr. lester to congratulate him on he success of his stores. This is what he had to say in response:

Dear Chris:

Thank you for your letter and your patronage at Williams-Sonoma. I hope that we continue to serve your well.

Advice is difficult to give to another person. I really didn't have a "mentor" early in my career. However, I was fortunate to have a wonderful mother who worked hard and demonstrated great values. They consisted of hard work, big dreams and a strong desire to improve oneself.

I failed several times as a young man but learned from each experience and never stopped believing in myself. The best advice I can give is to never stop dreaming and continue to work hard to achieve your dreams.

We continue to dream about our business and constantly strive to be the best at what we do. It gets harder as we get larger to achieve our larger vision but the same principles apply.

Best of luck to you for your future.

Sincerely,

Howard Lester

Robert Ulrich (Target CEO)

Reference Date: November 24th

Out of all the holiday shopping I did in 2007, I'd say 80% of my money was spent at Target. It took a while for Target to come to New Jersey, but when they got here, I became an instant fan. Their stores are clean, and the items are of good quality, easy to find and well priced. I sent a letter to the CEO of Target, Robert Ulrich. I got a letter back from his executive assistant, but it was nice to hear from them nonetheless. This is what the letter said:

Dear Mr. Lucas:

Thanks-for your letter to Target~Corporation asking for motivational advice.

Robert Ulrich has received your letter, and has asked me to respond on his behalf.

As Chairman and CEO of Target, Mr. Ulrich truly appreciates hearing your thoughtful comments and interest in learning more about how our executives have achieved their current positions at Target. I'm sure you can imagine that as one of the nation's best known executives, he receives many requests of this nature. While I know he'd like to share his personal thoughts and 40 years of Target business experience with you, we must decline the vast majority of these opportunities unless they fit in focus areas for our business or community giving.

You may wish to visit Target.com, where you can read and download the Target Annual Report, with comments by Mr. Ulrich. Additionally, there is an extensive amount of information and comments in other publications, including a recent article noting Mr. Ulrich's award as CEO of the Year 2007" by Chief Executive Magazine, in August, 2007.

We appreciate your interest, and wish you the best of luck on your future endeavors!

- Mr. Ulrich's office

"Mr. New Year's Eve" replies

2007-12-31T23:42:00.000-05:00

Dick Clark

Reference Date:
October 5th

As I write this, it's a quarter to twelve on December 31st, 2007. In fifteen minutes, it will be the first day of 2008, exactly two years from the time that I started on my "Letter A Day" project for 2006.

If you look at my posts for 2007, they are slim. This is not because I was lazy and didn't want to write (OK, there's a little of that in there) but mostly because the flow of replies slowed to a trickle.

Originally, I was going to publish my collection of replies at the end of 2007, but I'm going to push that back for another six months or so. Judging by Geoffrey Rush, who took over a year to get back to me, I know that my letters don't always get to the recipient as soon as I mail them out, so the reply can come much later, through no fault of their own.

Another case in point is the reply I got from "Mr. New Year's Eve", American broadcasting legend Dick Clark. He's been on the air for over sixty years! His biggest success came as host of "American Bandstand" from the early days of rock and roll to the rap/hip-hop era. He also started a successful production company, and is one of the most powerful men in television.

In the 1970's, after Guy Lombardo (the legendary bandleader whose "Auld Lang Syne" would ring in the New year for millions on the radio and TV) passed away, Dick took over hosting duties from Times Square. He has held the New year's mantle since, even after suffering from a stroke in 2004.

I wrote to Mr. Clark on the anniversary of his first "American Bandstand" show. This was his very kind reply:

Chris,

Please forgive the long delay in responding. I was sick for the past 5 weeks and, unfortunately, didn't get much work done.

In response to your note, here we go...

The best words of encouragement I received early in my career were from an old morning disc jockey and they were to never become discouraged with the outcome... just forge on.

The only pitfalls I have met are ones I built for myself with my over-enthusiasm. One must be careful not to oversell oneself.

The greatest lesson I ever learned was work hard and steadily. Never become discouraged and look forward to your next challenge.

Thank you for your very kind note. Again I apologize for not being able to reply sooner.

Sincerely,

DICK CLARK

I sent him a nice thank you letter

A very funny man replies

2007-10-25T00:10:00.001-04:00

Leslie Nielsen

Reference Date: May 18th

My taste in comedy is all over the map. I appreciate great writing and witty banter (like the Marx Brothers and Abbot & Costello) but also have laughed very hard at the slapstick humor of Laurel & Hardy and the surrealism of Monty Python. It's very rare to find one actor that can employ all those different styles in one role and still make it work. Leslie Nielsen is one of those people.

This Canadian born actor (his father was a Royal Canadian Mountie) began his film career in serious and heroic roles, but in 1980 was redefined with his work in the classic and groundbreaking comedy "Airplane." This led to his most famous and enduring role, that of Lt. Frank Drebin in the "Police Squad/Naked Gun" TV show and movies. He is so associated with comedy now, that I think it would be hard for him to slip back into serious roles.

Mr. Neilsen sent me a postcard with just a few words of advice on the back. This is what he wrote:

Chris,

My advice: I take a pass on all advice!

Words of Encouragement: Always sit down whenever you can!

Major pitfalls: They're usually closed during the day, so never go out at night.

I never look for "great lessons"

My daily habit for success: a morning bowl of fibre and blue berries.

Much luck and laughter -

Leslie Nielsen

I sent him a thank you card.

Another award winner replies

2007-10-24T23:48:00.000-04:00

Geoffrey Rush

Reference Date: February 7th

As an actor, I'm always delighted to hear from other actors, especially ones with award winning pedigree. I was pleasantly surprised then to receive a letter this week from a man who has won an Oscar and an Emmy, Geoffrey Rush.

Probably most famous for his portrayal of Captain Barbossa in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series, Rush originally won acclaim for his portrayal of the mentally handicapped piano player David Helfgott in 1996's "Shine." His work in that film made him the first Austrailian actor to win an Academy Award for Best Actor. Just a few years ago, his seemingly effortless work capturig the life of Peter Sellers for an HBO biopic got Rush an Emmy award to go with the Academy statue.

I wrote to him in February '06, after seeing him in the film "Munich." Mr.Rush sent his reply to me on the back of a postcard depicting him as Capt. Barbossa. On the front of the card he wrote "Hang In there Chris!" (see photo above) and this is what he had to say on the back:

Dear Chris,

I did theater for 25 years before films... state subsidies, repertory, etc. so it was never for money or fame... This helped!

I have always taken big and small roles. Sometimes it's good to lead a company, and sometimes it's good to lurk on the side and allow for quiet experimentation.

Occasionally it's important to take a real risk - to meet a personal challenge and truly be prepared to fail.

Generally, I approach most things with pure gut instinct - more often than I end up following my initial reaction.

Always keep at it - better to be working than not.

Hope all goes well.

Best, Geoffrey Rush

P.S I only received your letter of February '06 in August '07. Sorry.

I sent him a thank you card.

Another non-reply

2007-10-16T02:10:00.001-04:00

John C. McGinley

Reference Date: September 10th

One of the most underrated shows on TV is the medical sitcom "Scrubs." One of the things thatgives the show it's comic core is the portrayal of caustic Dr. Perry Cox by veteran character actor John C. McGinley.

I sent him a letter commending him on his work, and asking him a few questions about his life as an actor. I got back a very nice personally autographed photo from him, but no letter.

As I've said before, I am very happy to get any response, rather than an unanswered missive. I sent him a thank you as soon as the photo came.

A legendary cartoonist replies

2007-10-16T01:59:00.001-04:00

Mort Walker

Reference Date: November 11th

I've been reading the "funny pages" all my life. One of the first comics I turn to is "Beetle Bailey" which has been around for over 50 years.

The creative mind behind Beetle, sarge, General Halftrack, Miss Buxley and the gang is Mort Walker, the current Dean of American cartoonists. In addition to working tirelessly on his own strip for half a century, Mr. Walker has written several books on the subject of cartoons and even opened the American Comic Art Museum. He has been honored by hundreds of organizations for his work and philanthropy, including the USO and the Defense Department.

Despite having so much on his plate, Mr. walker was kind enough to take the time to send me an email in response to my letter. This is what he had to say:

Dear Chris,

Thanks for the nice words about my work.

The only advice I can think of is to keep trying. If something isn't working, try something else.

Never give up.

Keep a positive attitude.

Make friends and enjoy what you're doing.

Good luck!

Mort Walker

I sent him a thank you the next day.

A respected theologian replies

2007-10-16T01:37:00.000-04:00

Father Ted Hesburgh

Reference Date: November 27th

The University of Notre Dame has always held a special place in my heart. I did not attend the school, but their team name is "the Fighting Irish" and their long storied history of academics and sports is matched by few others.

For many years, the public face of Notre Dame has been Father Theodore (Ted) Hesburgh, who was President of the University from 1952-1987 and was awarded the prestigious US Presidential Medal of Freedom. The University's library is named for him. (I actually sent the letter to Father Hesburgh c/o the Father Hesburgh Library. How often is someone's name the same as their mailing address?)

This is what Father Hesburgh had to say in his reply to me:

Dear Chris,

Thank you for that wonderful letter. I have just the advice you need.

All of my life I have realized that we need special inspiration from God to do what He wants us to do - to enlighten us about that and give us the strength each day to carry it out. I have found that, after more than sixty years as a priest, the best I can do in beginning each day is to pray a very short prayer: "Come, Holy Spirit". That puts you at the disposal of the Spirit for all the inspiration and strength you need.

I find that through the day when I face a problem which seems to have no answer, I simply pray, "Come, Holy Spirit". The answer becomes apparent and I think I have the right words to say to the person with the problem.

This is also a great prayer for your personal life. There are many options we all have in life and, as we face them, it is important to pray, "Come, Holy Spirit", so that we will know the right things to do and we will have the strength to do it. The Spirit brings us both the inspiration and the strength.

I hope this is helpful to you and I encourage you to keep up the good life you have begun. I know, with the help of the Holy Spirit you will have great fruits. It will also bring you great peace.

With a daily prayer for you and yours, and all blessings from here,

Ever devotedly in Notre Dame,

Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C.
President Emeritus, University of Notre Dame

I sent him a thank you the next day

The Vice President replies

2007-10-16T01:22:00.000-04:00

Dick Cheney

Reference date:July 18th

One of the most accomplished men in the history of US Government is Richard "Dick" Cheney. Since beginning his political career in 1969, Mr. Cheney has been White House Chief of Staff to President Ford, five term US Congressman from Wyoming, Secretary of Defense under President George H.W. Bush and currently Vice President under George W. Bush. His term of office as Vice President ends in January 2009, I was happy to get this letter from him just before he closes out his life in politics.

Like the letter from Senator Kennedy before him, it is a stock reply, signed with an auto pen, but it's impressive to get a letter on White House stationery nonetheless.

This is what the Vice President had to say;

Dear Mr. Lucas:

Thank you for taking the time to write and offer your kind words of support. Your correspondence is important to me.

Each day, I feel honored to serve this country as Vice President under the remarkable leadership of President Bush. Both the President and I are grateful for the thoughts and prayers of our fellow citizens, and we strive daily to serve this great nation with dignity and strength.

Thank you again for taking the time to send your thoughtful words. Lynne joins me in sending you our best wishes.

Sincerely,

Dick Cheney,

Vice President of the United States of America

I sent him a thank you the next day.

Two non replies from the same address!!

2007-06-28T01:38:00.001-04:00

Samuel L. Jackson

Reference date: August 19th

Joe Cocker

Reference Date: August 15th

Two separate celebrities, two different mailing addresses.

Strangely enough, I got replies from both of them from the same mailing house.

I call them replies, but in reality what I got were two small black and white publicity photos with a pre-printed autograph on each. No letter, no answers to my questions, just this.

Like I've said before. I appreciate any response, rather than my letter being ignored or tossed in the trash, but I have to admit I'm puzzled as to why they came from the same address.

A multi-talented guy replies!

2007-06-28T00:53:00.001-04:00

Seth Swirsky

Reference date: May 2007

While working on my letter writing project in 2006, I sought out others who made a habit of corresponding with those who inspired them.

One of the people I was drawn to was a multi talented guy named Seth Swirsky. In 1994, with Major League Baseball on strike, Seth began writing to the heroes of the game, past and present. He turned his efforts into a book called "Baseball Letters" and has since written two follow up books detailing his missives. (see above pictures.)

Just doing that would be enough to qualify one as accomplished, but Mr. Swirsky has done so much more. In addition to being a published author, he is also a musician, artist, collector and , as he bills himself, "manic expressive." To find out more about him, you can visit his website: www.Seth.com

I wrote to Mr. Swirsky just last month to compliment him on his books, and to tell him how much they meant to me and my dad. Though it's not 2006 anymore, I also asked him some of the questions that I posed to all of the people I wrote to last year.

Here was his response:

Hey Chris,

Nice to hear from you. Thanks for your very kind words about my books. I'm so happy you had the chance to share some of the letters with your dad --I remember reading about him: you talk about an inspiring human being -- I would say you've got one in a father. Amazing man.

My parents always, always, always supported me -- playing the guitar at an early age, songwriting, etc. They always promoted what I was interested in. By far, they gave me the most encouragement.

An early mentor would be a man named Irwin Schister. When I was 20, I walked into his office in NYC. He was the Vice President of Chappell Music, the top music publisher in the world at that time. They published the songs of the Bee Gees, George Gershwin, The Police, Culture Club, Elvis Presley --you name the song, they probably published it. I had the opportunity, during my summer break in college to play him a song of mine and he flipped, giving me a contract on the spot. I eventually became a staff songwriter with Chappell and went on to write a number of hit songs, most notably "Tell it to My heart" for Taylor Dayne. At an early age, he liked my music and that was extremely encouraging.

I have a little formula I made up as the key to success: You must have the 3 "P's": Passion,Perseverance and Patience." If you just follow that, success will come.

What daily habit contributes most to my success? By far, interest in the subject I'm working on.

All my best Chris.

Sincerely,

Seth

Another non-reply reply

2007-05-08T00:01:00.000-04:00

Ellen Burstyn

Reference date: September 4th

Well, the drought is over! I got my frst letter in months. It was from Academy Award winning actress Ellen Burstyn. Unfortunately it was a "non-reply", just like the one I got from the woman who played Edith Bunker, Jean Stapleton.

In my letter, I asked questions to Ms. Burstyn, best known for her roles in "The Exorcist" and "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" about her life as an actor. She was also head of my Union (Actors Equity Association) for quite some time and i inquired about that.

Ms. Burstyn's response was an autographed photo that simply said, "To Chris." No advice, no words of wisdom, just the photo. Not that I'm unappreciative, it's just that I expected more. Oh well, at least she acknowledged my letter.

I sent her a thank you card the next day.

Another "Brady" reply from a show business legend

2007-03-15T02:08:00.000-04:00

Sherwood Schwartz

Reference date: July 22nd

Not too many people can say that they have made an impact on American pop culture more than once in their lifetimes. Sherwood Schwartz can claim two important milestones. He was the creator and executive producer of both "Gilligan's Island' and "The Brady Bunch." In addition, he wrote the classic theme songs to both shows.

There isn't a person alive over 30 years old who cannot sing at least a few lines from these theme songs. (Quick story.. when I was on vacation in Ireland, a few of the old timers in a pub wanted us to teach them some traditional American folk songs. We began with "Here's a story, of a lovely lady.." and finished with "Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale.."They ate it up.)

Mr. Schwartz is now 90 years old. I sent him a letter to thank him for his influence on my career, and this was his very kind reply:

Dear Chris,

Most of the mail I get are from fans of "The Brady Bunch" or "Gilligan's Island." Usually the fans want a picture of the cast of either or both of the shows, and also a picture of me because most people know my shows and they're curious to see what I look like. Those letters are easy to answer, so I answer them first.

However, your letter is another matter. You're asking for advice, and I hate to ignore that, but as in life, generally, one tries to get rid of simple things first.

You call me a show bus1ness legend, but legends are often here today, gone tomorrow. I've been very lucky, and I use the word "lucky" advisedly. There are many people with talent such as actors, or writers, or producers, or directors, etc. But you have to be in the right place at the right time, and that's where "luck" comes in.

I have enormous respect for actors. They are the bridge between the script and the audience, as are the director and the producer and all the various crafts which takes part in that transformation of the written word to the viewer.

I'm reminded of a famous joke about an actor who's performing one of Shakespeare's plays in a small town yesteryear. The cowboy's were bored with the presentation and started booing, the actor said, "Don't be mad at me. I didn't write this sh*t."

As far as some specific advice is concerned: prepare for rejection, because it's going to come. I'ts much worse to be rejected when you're an actor, because it's personal. Someone is rejecting you. When somebody rejects something I've written, it's a less direct rejection. They're just rejecting my work, not me.

You can be rejected because you're too tall for the part, or you're standing next to the lead actor who may or may not be taller or shorter or darker or lighter, etc., etc., and it may have nothing to do with your performance. In fact, as a producer who has to make a decision about two actors who both seem equally good for a certain part, I always try to explain my decision to the one who didn't get the part.

One time I was trying to make a decision for a play I wrote and it was being produced in Chicago. One of the actors, who was up for a relatively minor part, was really terrific. He was so good, in fact, in a joint decision with the director, we tested him for a larger part. He was so good in that reading, we both thought he should have a bigger part. Again, he was better than anyone else. Then finally, we both offered him any other male part except the starring role, and we suggested he should be in Hollywood instead of Chicago. No, he wasn't Clark Gable but he was Harvey Korman, who took our advice, came to Hollywood, and became a star on the "Carol Burnett Show," and has done many other roles since.

People will notice talent. I could tell you many other stories like that. Whether you're in a commercial, or have a bit part in a movie or TV show, just do your best because it can always lead to something more important.

As an actor, nobody will give you a job because they like you. They will give you a job because it's good for them. It's strictly quid pro quo. Nobody is doing anybody a favor.

I really can't say anything more to you on this subject, because I've said all this to many people, including my own children and grandchildren and I hope to be able to tell it to my three great-grandchildren when they're old enough to understand what I'm talking about.

As someone once said, "Have you ever noticed how good luck comes to the people who work the hardest?"

Good luck.

- Sherwood Schwartz

I sent him a detailed thank you the next day

A reply that rocks!!

2007-03-15T01:51:00.000-04:00

Huey Lewis

Reference date: August 1st

It's been noted many times before on this blog that I am a child of the 1980's. I have great fondness for that era, and some of my best memories are of playing the same records over and over again and watching the corresponding videos on MTV.

One of the biggest stars of that era was Huey Lewis, who fronted a band called the News and had several hit albums. In recent years, he's appeared in films and on Broadway. I saw him as Billy Flynn in "Chicago" a few years ago.

This was his handwritten response to my letter. (Short but sweet.)

Chris -

Trust your instincts, and never give up!

Good luck!

- Huey

I sent him a thank you the next day.

A "Super" non-reply

2007-03-15T01:33:00.000-04:00

Noel Neill

Reference Date: June 28th

Though the picture above is in color, I got to know Noel Neill best in black and white, in her role as the original Lois Lane in the "Adventures of Superman" TV series starring the late George Reeves. This show debuted in the 1950's, but I watched it every day during a back to back Superman/Batman marathon on WPIX in New York.

I wrote to Ms. Neill after seeing the current incarnation of "Superman" this summer. I was happy to get an autographed picture back from her, though it did not conatin any answers to the questions I asked her.

This is what she wrote:

To Chris:

All the Best!

Noel Neill "Lois Lane"

I sent her a thank you the next day.

How do I get my contact information??

2007-02-13T01:40:00.001-05:00

Many people have written to me after reading my blog asking me how they too can write to their favorite personalities in the media, politics and show business. My answer is always the same. the most valuable resource for me in my project has been one website:

http://www.contactanycelebrity.com

Any time I've needed to find the right address for my project, Contact Any Celebrity has come through. In addition to the website, they also publish a yearly compilation of celebrity addresses, which is a valuable addition to any personal library.

A "Marvelous" reply

2007-02-13T00:32:00.000-05:00

"Marvelous" Marvin Hagler

Reference Date: December 26th

My grandfather was a big boxing fan, since he grew up in the days when the "sweet science" was as popular as baseball and drew more attendance than pro football. He died when I was young, but I remember him telling me stories about the "good old days." He ignited my passion for boxing, which lives on despite the mediocre level of talent in today's game.

The era I grew up in, the 1980's was another glorious time for boxing, as it saw many legends emerge, from Gerry Cooney to Mike Tyson. One of the best was a man who lived up to his billing, "Marvelous" Marvin Hagler (which is now his legal name.)

Hagler became middleweight champion of the world in 1980, and held the title for an impressive seven years. In that time, he had some memorable matches, including superfights with Roberto Duran and Thomas Hearns, and a controversial loss to Sugar Ray Leonard. In 1993, Hagler was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

I contacted Hagler at his home in Italy, where he has been living since his retirement from the sport in 1987. He was kind enough to send this reply:

Hi Chris

Thank you for writing, and for your support.

Well it's always difficult to give advice to someone.

All I know is that I always fought very hard for everything I did and I do.

You have to believe in yourself and in what you're doing.

Good luck with whatever you do in your life, and never feel disappointed
if things don't go the way you want.

Keep Punching!

Marvelous Marvin Hagler

I sent him a thank you the next day.

The numbers are in (part 2)

2007-02-12T23:47:00.000-05:00

Well, I've tabulated the 1,200 letters I sent last year by gender and occupational category, and have come up with some interesting statistics.

I was criticized by some for favoring males in my project, and after reading the numbers, I can see their point.

Out of 1,200 letters written, only 281 were to females. This is little over 20%. I assure you this wasn't done on purpose. I admire many notable women and have great respect for their accomplishments. It just so happened that many of the categories and anniversaries I observed in my selections involved males. Had I been more conscious of this statistical tilt, I would have added more females to my correspondents list.

Also, since I am an actor, many of my letters were written to people involved in show business in some way. I've broken down the 1,200 by category/primary field of endeavor, and here are the numbers:

MOVIES: 347

TV: 244

THEATER: 49

MUSIC: 97

SPORTS: 142

BUSINESS: 111

POLITICS: 98

SCIENCE: 16

RELIGION: 7

MEDIA: 89

I'll have month by month breakdowns soon.

"Mrs. C." Replies

2007-01-26T02:29:00.000-05:00

Marion Ross

Reference Date: September 8th

One of the nicest surprises I've gotten since my letter writing campaign began was a package personally made out and sent by actress Marion Ross, who played Marion "Mrs. C." Cunningham on the hit 1970's TV show "Happy Days."

Inside the package was a personally autographed photo of Ms. Ross, as well as a copy of her biography, written by O.H. Buzz Hagen, about growing up in Albert Lea, Minnesota called "Going Home", inscribed with a message to me. This is what it said:

Dear Chris,

Keep hungry! The Big "D" - desire, is the strongest motivation.

There is room for every type in the acting business, as many as there are types of people.

Sometimes the greatest success comes when you're much older, so hang in there - it's a lifetime plan!

Keep healthy too!

Good luck!

- Marion Ross

I sent her a thank you card the next day

A comedy genius replies

2007-01-26T02:10:00.000-05:00

Alan Zweibel

Reference Date: August 3rd

I am a huge fan of NBC's "Saturday Night Live" and have been watching since its debut in 1975. (Though I was too young to get most of the jokes back then.) One of the people who helped to shape the direction of the show was staff writer Alan Zweibel.

You may not know his name, but Mr. Zweibel has collaborated with some of the greatest comedy minds of our generation, including the late Gilda Radner, about whom he wrote a touching memoir.

In recent years, Mr. Zweibel has lent his brilliant comedic writing skills to Broadway productions like Billy Crystal's "700 Sundays" and Martin Short's "Fame Becomes Me."

I wrote to Mr. Zweibel after seeing Martin Short's show, and this is what he had to say in response:

Dear Chris -

The only words of advice I can give you is "keep rowing". Keep doing what you're doing and don't ever lose hope or get down on yourself when things look bleak. I don't know one successful person who didn't go through tough and frustrating times - even after they had experienced success.

One never knows when the phone will ring with an opportunity to change your career/life. So the best we can do is keep working at our craft so we can be prepared when that opportunity presents itself - because it will.

Good luck with everything,

-Alan Zweibel

I sent him a thank you the next day

"Flick" responds

2007-01-26T01:35:00.000-05:00

Zack Ward

Reference Date: December 24th

On Christmas Eve, I sent letters to a few cast members of the film "A Christmas Story" which is rerun over and over again on that night. One of my favorite characters in that film is Flick, the bully that torments the hero Ralphie. Flick is famous for wearing a fur hat and having a menacing glare. This redhead struck fear into the hearts of many.

In reality, Flick was played by a very talented actor, Zack Ward. who successfully transitioned from childhood stardom to featured roles as an adult, including the hit FOX sitcom "Titus." This Summer, he will be seen in the highly anticipated sci fi flick, "Transformers", based on the toys from the 1980's.

I wrote to commend Mr. Ward on his work over the years, and to ask him for advice. This was his response, via his MySpace page:

Chris,

Wow, that's quite a compliment. Thank you.

I've got nothing pithy to say off the top of my head in regard to advice. I started really young and my mother was an actress so I watched. I think my first acting experience was dressing up in old clothes and Halloween costumes with my friends and marching around the block pretending we were a parade, in July, cause we were playing. I think playing is the key. Enjoying the process.

As a kid I didn't do it for any specific end except it was fun and I could be my literary and comic book heroes. It was freedom. The kind you only vaguely remember when you're an adult. But the light of that is why we love childrens laughter, how free it is, in a way we never are any more. I try to play. To fall in love and play. And it's hard and sucky and people are mean. But sometimes none of that matters cause I'm playing.

I gotta get some sleep, I'm rambling. But keep writing and maybe we can figure it out sometime.

Take care, and thanks again.

Zack

I replied immediately with a thank you.

A stock reply from a legendary American

2007-01-26T01:09:00.000-05:00

Senator Edward M. "Ted" Kennedy

Reference Date: March 17th

As an Irish-American, few people were as revered in my house as the Kennedy family. This American political dynasty has most certainly been touched by great triumph as well as great tragedy, and the current generation is continuing the proud legacy of service to their country set by their predecessors.

The "Old Guard" is still represented in Washington by the last remaining original brother, and a legendary Senator from Massachusetts, Ted Kennedy.

I wrote Senator Kennedy a letter last St. Patrick's Day, and was pleased to receive a response from him almost a year later. However, when I opened the envelope, it contained an unsigned standard form reply chronicling his life. This is what it had to say:

Dear Mr. Lucas:

Thank you for writing to me regarding my job as a United States Senator. I appreciate your interest in my career in public service and my activities as a member of the Senate.

Growing up in my family, I was taught the importance of public service. My father served as Ambassador to Great Britain and my grandfather served in Congress and as Mayor of Boston. My brother Jack was elected to Congress in 1946, when I was 14 years old, and I found his service very inspiring.

My first actual experiences in politics involved working in my brother's campaigns for the Senate in 1952 and 1958. When he decided to run for the Presidency in 1960, I worked as his campaign coordinator for the western United States. After President Kennedy was elected, I went to work as an Assistant District Attorney for Suffolk County, Massachusetts, and in 1962, I made the decision to run for the United States Senate.

Since then, I have been honored that the people of Massachusetts have chosen to continue to elect me to serve them in the Senate. In that time, I have served as the Chairman of both the Judiciary and the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committees, and also as a member of the Armed Services and Joint Economic Committees.

Throughout my 40 years in the Senate, I have been dedicated to advancing the causes that are of concern to the people of Massachusetts, and the nation. I have also tried to continue in the tradition of public service by my brothers to make the dreams and ideals of this country a reality.

Thank you again for writing to me about these issues. I appreciate your interest and I send my best wishes for the future.

Sincerely

Edward M. Kennedy

I sent him a thank you the next day

The numbers are in (part 1)

2007-01-26T00:52:00.000-05:00

Well, I've been tallying the numbers from my 2006 "letter a day" project, and they are even larger than I imagined.

The grand total of letters written was 1,200

That works out to over 3 letters a day. (I got ambitious, what can I say?)

It's also 23 letters a week. (My printer ink had to be changed quite often.)

The response rate is not quite what I had expected. I've gotten 95 replies, which is less than 10 percent. That being said, we're only a few weeks into the new year, and I expect to get many more by June (which is when the first draft of my book aboit this project is due) bringing the total closer to the anticipated 20 percent.

In the next few days I'm going to break the numbers down by occupation, gender (I was criticized for not contacting enough females, but as I was going over my list, there were a great number of females on it) and month by month.

Thanks for your interest in my project!

- Chris Lucas