Applause for Karl Malden

Re “Karl Malden, 1912 - 2009: Oscar winner also known for TV ads,” Obituary, July 2

We lost one of the all-time greats when legendary actor Karl Malden recently passed away.

I must, however, disagree with any notion that his astonishing film and Broadway performances “were eclipsed by his American Express pitchman role.” Yes, he must have made a mint doing those commercials, and thank goodness for that. But make no mistake: His Broadway, then Oscar-winning performances earned him a place in the pantheon of Hollywood’s brightest and best.

A star that bright cannot be eclipsed; it simply shines on.

Brian Foyster

Los Angeles