Downey’s Difficulties

Thank you, Howard Rosenberg, for a kind-hearted review of the “Ally McBeal” episode and Robert Downey Jr.’s particular situation (“What Can Really Be Seen in the Eyes of an Actor?,” Dec. 11).

Whether he is an addict beyond his ability to change or a spoiled young man indulging in a dangerous and destructive lifestyle choice is irrelevant to the end result. He is above all a human being, and we must pray for his deliverance from whatever the demon might be.

KEN NEELY

Pomona

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I too am an artist and a recovering alcoholic. I am luckier than Downey; I have been in remission for more than 12 years. However, every day I count my blessings, knowing that this disease is tenacious and can come creeping back into my life without warning.

Downey is no hardened criminal. He has hurt no one but himself, a fact that is not lost on him, however lost he may appear to be. He has a disease. He didn’t ask for it any more than anyone with an illness asks to be sick. He continues to try and get help; he continues to reach out.

Please, Mr. Rosenberg, don’t be a part of the problem. You are in a position to use your power to educate and enlighten the public about the cycle of addiction.

HOPE ALEXANDER

North Hollywood

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Rosenberg reported that Downey’s “drug-related legal problems date to 1996 when he was stopped for speeding and police discovered cocaine, heroine and a pistol in his car.”

Congratulations are in order to Rosenberg for scooping virtually all other media on this heretofore unreported detail. Was Downey’s riding companion Xena the Warrior Princess? Wonder Woman? Cagney and/or Lacey?

Well, no wonder he was caught.

PAUL SERCHIA

Los Angeles