On Winning, Sore Losing and Yada, Yada, Yada

Thank you for the delightful article written by Peter Mehlman (“Hollywood First Person,” Calendar, Sept. 27) He certainly is a winner to me. “The “Yada, Yada” was the best! Thanks.

DIANE BREITMAN

Los Angeles

*

Yada schmada! Sitcom writer Peter Mehlman wrote about how his “Seinfeld” episode didn’t win an Emmy this year, and proved why he also didn’t win a prize for congeniality. First he denigrated his partner, Jill Franklyn, by pointing out that she’s not on staff but that she writes “beautifully oversexed screenplays” (is that how she would characterize her work?), then he admitted to not having watched the “Ellen” episode that won the award because he was “reading a book.”

Mehlman listed the many “Seinfeld” episodes he wrote, and it’s no coincidence that they are among the most insulting in their treatment of women. Ellen DeGeneres and her co-writers who deservedly won the Emmy for their script called “The Puppy” (better known as “Ellen’s Coming Out” episode) made TV history with a remarkably funny and creative effort. Too bad Mehlman is too bitter to recognize their brilliance.

ANNE J. KATZ

Los Angeles

*

I wanted to commend Peter Mehlman on his false hope quest for the Emmy. I can relate. Not to gloat, but I’ve lost numerous times, myself. Four Emmy nominations (daytime, but still). I even flew to New York just to have the honor of losing on national television. Everyone told me I’d win. Including the rabbi I wrote the show about. Two Writers Guild nominations. Both times, my table was practically in the kitchen. Not a good sign. The Humanitas. Before the ceremony began, my husband overheard one of the judges reveal the winner of my category to a network executive. It wasn’t me. At least I got to enjoy the meal. And yet, it’s always a supreme honor to be nominated, a chance to dress up, an excuse to drive everyone in your immediate family postal as you recite the acceptance speech that, let’s face it, on a deep gut level, you know you’re not going to give.

Here’s to more nominations, Peter. Humility’s a good thing. Winning’s better.

CAROL STARR SCHNEIDER

Valley Village