To the editors:

It is true that in the long run, it would be much more enjoyable for the American public at large watch the life of its American Idol plummet to the depths of depravity because of drugs, felony charges and the like (Dartboard, “Just an Idol Slap,” April 4). Fox’s best interest would therefore have been to keep contestants Corey Clark and Frenchie Davis on the show.

However, the operative words in Fox’s statement (and your article) are “failing to disclose.” The producers of the show most likely asked the contestants to reveal if they had been convicted of violating a law, or otherwise engaged in any activities that might be potentially embarrassing to the contestant or the show. When we applied to Harvard, we were forced to answer the same questions. When we enter the workforce, the same questions will arise. And for these instances the penalties for omission are clear—disqualification of your application.

There is another Idol contestant, Trenyce, who was convicted of felony theft. Her candor with the producers, however, has saved her a spot on the show. So if Dartboard wants intrigue and scandal, there is still hope; vote for Trenyce and make her the next American Idol.

Patrick J. Toussaint ’06

April 4, 2003