GARY COLEMAN

I was one of the executive producers of “Diff’rent Strokes” for the show’s last two years. “A Tale of a Falling Star,” by Bella Stumbo (May 20), states that Gary Coleman’s character, Arnold, “was never allowed to be more than 12.” In the final two seasons, we jumped Arnold’s age a couple of years and began doing dating stories--shows that were made both funny and believable by Gary’s talent and ability.

More important, most everything stated in the article is correct. We are given a look at Gary, Willie and Sue Coleman in 1990 with their situation turned sad and ugly. I knew the Colemans. I’ve seen and talked with both Gary and Willie (separately, of course), within the past year. The knocks on Gary’s temperament aside, he was and is a very decent young man.

Willie and Sue were in over their heads with the agents, lawyers and assorted sharks that surrounded them during the glory years. Sure, they made mistakes as parents, but that gives them no claim on uniqueness. They, too, are very decent people. I don’t believe anyone connected with “Strokes” ever doubted their love for Gary.

At this point in time, the Colemans don’t need accountants, managers, agents, et al. They don’t need to meet in a public place (Hamburger Hamlet) with a fourth party. They need to go into a room, alone, put their arms around each other and see what happens.

KEN HECHT

Los Angeles