Daily Dose of Jackson

KRLA’s claim to be the “new” talk radio in Los Angeles while transforming itself into a homeless shelter for KABC cast-offs is ludicrous (“Jackson Returns Today to Daily Radio” by Judith Michaelson, Jan. 4).

KRLA obviously hopes Michael Jackson will be the jewel in its “new” crown. To me, however, Jackson is the epitome of style over substance. Indeed, The Times consistently uses terms like “silver-toned” and “eloquent” to describe his style. Whenever I hear his brand of Westside liberalism delivered in that ersatz British accent (he’s South African), I’m reminded of a line George Bernard Shaw wrote to describe a character in “Pygmalion”: “oozing charm from every pore, he oils his way across the floor.”

Jackson’s yearlong whining about his demotion at KABC to press and panel presentations alike and his feud with replacement Ronn Owens over ratings was childish--exquisitely silver-toned, but childish.

ROBERT McARTHUR

Reseda

*

The yearlong drone of right-wing lunacy on Los Angeles talk radio has finally been perforated by Michael Jackson on the new KRLA-AM (1110) format. Hats off to KRLA.

RON KOBAYASHI

Orange

*

Jackson has been sorely missed with his informational show that is both classy and entertaining. I am tired of all those who try to shove their morals down my throat. If I wanted a preacher, I would turn to a professional one, not a holier-than-thou loudmouth on the radio who talks down to the silent majority of the people.

MARIE TAGENIUS

Los Angeles