THOSE 'CANDID' REACTIONS
     We are faithful viewers in North Carolina but there is one thing that disappoints me and my wife every time we watch your show, and that is when you tell the people that they are on Candid Camera, you only show one person being told. We always wonder how all of the other people reacted when they found out that they were on Candid Camera. Even if it is only a five-second reaction, I'm sure that you can somehow work it in. If you can't, then you shouldn't show those particular people. Please do something before I get so aggravated that we don't watch it anymore!
—Jason and Alisa Henderson, Creedmoor, North Carolina

[Peter's reply: Hold on there, Hendersons! I hope such a thing doesn't aggravate you so much that you'd actually change the channel. We often show more than a single reaction - sometimes three or four. But our editors select the most interesting moments. I assure you if it's entertaining, we'll include it.]

MISSED US IN PITTSBURGH
     You recently visited Pittsburgh, and I missed you. I live about 10 minutes from Station Square in the South Side. I would have given anything to meet your crew. I used to watch when Allen did the show. Peter does a funny job too. I just simply love Candid Camera.
—Robin Clamage, Pittsburgh, Pa.

THE POWER OF A SMILE
     I'm writing to tell you how much I enjoy your show. From the time I was two until I reached about the age of 19, I was severely physically abused (beaten) by my father. It was a truly horrible time. But one of the bright spots in my life during those awful years was Allen Funt. I used to watch Candid Camera whenever I could. I absolutely loved the show and it never, ever failed to brighten my day. Oftentimes, Candid Camera gave me the only smile I had in an entire week. If even for just a half-hour, I was incredibly grateful to be able to forget the things I was worried about and to just smile along with Allen Funt and the people featured each week on Candid Camera. Please don't underestimate my gratitude: When times are tough, a smile is a very precious thing. I'm glad to say that the sad times are all behind me now. My father got help, we now have a terrific relationship, and all has turned out well. However, the smiles and laughter Allen gave me during those frightening, painful, lonely childhood years have never been forgotten. Watching your recent tribute to his memory, I cried. I couldn't help but wonder if Allen Funt ever knew how many lives he touched? Could he possibly have known about the special way in which his work helped people? I hope so. Now Peter carries on for him and does a terrific job! I have no doubt that somehow Peter touches many lives in the same special way Allen touched mine. Please, please, please: Don't ever underestimate the value of the smiles you bring to viewers. God Bless.
—Cathy Young

CARDS, YES. FOOTBALL, NO!
     Last Friday I was playing cards with my grandma saying, "we have to hurry or else I will miss Candid Camera." So I finally put down my cards and went over to the TV and put on channel 2. I was disappointed to see that there was a football game on [in New York City]. I said, "what? Where is Candid Camera?" I will tell you right now that my Friday gets all fouled up if I don't see your show. Thanks for all of the laughs.
—Frank Dovi, Long Island, New York

TOO CRUEL?
     I have watched Candid Camera for years and thoroughly enjoy it. However, the portion about the trucking company trading employees was a bit cruel. If you have not been down-sized, right-sized, out-sized you don't know how those folks felt. The one woman even said her heart was beating out of her chest. Probably the only thing each person heard was "the boss" saying "you are being traded!" In my estimation the producer did not show compassionate judgment on that portion. Otherwise, thumbs up on your show.
—Pat

MORE ABOUT COOPER
     In reviewing your site, I opened the section on viewer ideas. After reading the information you posted concerning Cooper Young and his family, I had to write. Thank you for your willingness to help heal a grieving family. A family, I am sure, who have a million of unanswered questions as to why this tragedy occurred. To your large organization this was a small thing, but to this family, it had to be as big as the universe. A feeling of closure, something this father could do for his son. Thank you for your program and your humanity!
—Jenny Dotson

NEEDS REVENGE
     I know you do your shows at random, but I would sure love to get back at my sister-in-law. She got me really good on a morning scam radio show. If you are ever in my area, please let me know.
—Lynn, Grand Isle, Maine

[Peter's reply: You're right about one thing: Everyone caught by Candid Camera is selected completely at random. That's part of the fun. You never know who we'll catch next - and we don't know either! But if we ever do run into your sister-in-law, we'll be sure to trick her good.]