‘Baywatch’ Critique

I am a male reader who thinks that Susan Spano’s critique of the “Baywatch” television show is too harsh (“Picturing American Women Through the Eyes of the World’s ‘Baywatch’ Fans,” Her World, May 7).

I am not blind to the faults of “Baywatch.” In fact, I quit watching after the first two or three years because of them. I guess that the actresses’ sexual attractiveness is somewhat overemphasized. Several technical details also evolved to become inaccurate (the real lifeguards don’t use speedboats--they use slower boats). However, the basic concept of the show is realistic. Lifeguards are more athletic than the average person, and sexual attractiveness is a side product.

Female and male lifeguards perform rescues and prevent emergencies. I hope that “Baywatch” generates some respect for the real lifeguards and teaches people about water safety.

DOMINICK FALZONE

Los Angeles