Michael Jackson

* When I was 10 years old, I had no heroes. Being a young black boy who didn’t like sports, I had very few choices.

Then he was there! A flash of sequins, gravity-defying dance steps, and electric voice. He sang, he danced, he entertained. For a skinny black boy from the East Coast, he became my hero.

In my teens I was heralded as the best Michael Jackson impersonator in my hometown. I gave a standing-room-only performance of the “Thriller” video every Halloween for the local kids.

I would fight anybody who said he was gay. I would get indignant about accusations that he “wanted to be white.” And I defended his right to plastic surgery.

The problem with heroes is they’re human. We have a tendency to forget that.

I’ll reserve judgment until all the facts are in. But for my own sanity, Michael Jackson will be my last hero.

ASWAD

Los Angeles

* It is appalling to see the way in which the local television news reporters are covering the allegations against Jackson. After leading every newscast with stories and side stories about the investigation, several stations have taken the high-and-mighty position of criticizing the British press for revealing the names of the accusers. Since the local stations are so eager to reveal the name of someone accused of child molestation, why won’t they reveal the names of those accused of extortion? At least the British press is consistent. ABIGAIL LEVY

Los Angeles

* Until we see a smoking “glove,” we should all give Michael Jackson the benefit of the doubt.

JONATHAN FOBER

San Diego

* Perhaps it is time for the dictionary to redefine the word friend to simply read: noun . . . Elizabeth Taylor.

REISS J. DuPLESSIS

Carson