TV & VIDEO - March 16, 1987

NBC likes the name of its new high school series, “The Bronx Zoo,” but an American Federation of Teachers executive and the director of the real Bronx Zoo do not. Writing to NBC Entertainment President Brandon Tartikoff, Susan Feldman, president of the New York local of the teachers union, complained that “while I am told that the show itself is sensitive and extremely well-researched and acted, the title is an insult to the men and women we represent, as well as to their students.” Zoo director William Conway added, “The title has no redeeming social value whatsoever.” NBC remains firm on its choice. “Zoo” stars Ed Asner as the principal of a tough, inner-city high school. It debuts Thursday night.