All Disabled Actors Need Opportunities

We at the Deaf Entertainment Foundation and Guild are pleased to read about the popularity of using deaf actors in TV spots [“Companies Boost Number of Deaf Actors Appearing in Commercials,” Dec. 3.]

I would agree this is indeed the year of signing, as I have seen a great increase in casting of deaf actors during my two years of work at my organization.

The story, in my opinion, seems to imply that most casting directors prefer the deaf to the disabled because they are “beautiful” and people with other disabilities are “ugly.”

While it is true that looks are the primary concern for most casting directors, beauty is not always the reason casting directors choose the deaf. It may be for a particular age range, a personality aspect or a specific language need.

The Deaf Entertainment Foundation and Guild would hate for people with other disabilities to feel left out. As a member of the media image coalition, the Deaf Entertainment Foundation and Guild is in full support of diversity in casting and would like to see opportunities for commercials extended to not only the deaf, but also to the people in wheelchairs, the blind, the amputees and other performers with disabilities.

D. McCLINTOCK

Talent Liaison

Deaf Entertainment

Foundation and Guild

Beverly Hills