Problem in ‘Smallville’

I love Howard Rosenberg’s work, and I trust his opinions. But I watched “Smallville” and was horrified by the Matthew Shepard-like plot twist that played a main part in the show (“A Hero in the Making,” review of “Smallville” premiere by Rosenberg, Oct. 16).

Although I’m sure the producers didn’t mean to reference the Matthew Shepard tragedy, the fact that Mr. Shepard was described as looking like a scarecrow when he was found makes the connection unavoidable.

I also found the fact that Lana and Clark laugh at the idea that Clark would be brooding over a guy--that Clark might be gay--distasteful because it’s another example of the entertainment industry finding the idea that a teen could be gay a big joke.

I wouldn’t ordinarily complain about the underlying homophobia, because it’s a part of our culture, sadly. But when the scene is put into context with the Matthew Shepard imagery, especially as Clark is soon to be tied up like a scarecrow, then it gives the entire show an awful homophobic slant.

MITCH KOHN

West Hollywood