I can vividly recall the happy days of Major Bowes, who, every Sunday evening during the Great Depression, emceed a famous talent show (“Swan Song,” Nov. 13).

He made no nasty insults, as Simon Cowell does to contestants after their performances.

The three judges of “American Idol” must live with their consciences, for this woman was too young to die.

Richard Homer Bucco

Bloomfield, NJ

*****

There is nothing sadder than someone who is obsessed with a reality show like “American Idol.” Except someone who would kill herself over it.

Whatever happened to shows like “Hollywood Palace” or “Dick Van Dyke”?

Charlie Honadel

Staten Island

*****

An “American Idol” contestant’s suicide was coming. Singing is a career goal more tied to the heart than possibly any profession.

Appearing on a hit show is courageous. The judges know this but, for ratings, humiliate those who don’t make the grade.

Simon, instead of ridiculing bad singers, should be honored that there are those who trust him with a childhood dream.

David E. Bergstein

Manhattan