GAMBLING ON LAUGHS
     We just loved the ATM segment at Lake Tahoe. We all were hysterical with laughter. Of all the many shows Candid Camera has done, this had to be the very best. We all feel you should pull this one again at another resort. As a gambler I truly loved it!
—R. Dayter, New York

PEEVED AT THE PUMP
     On your last show, the segments involving the gas station were a little annoying to me. Almost always when I stop at the gas station I am on a very tight schedule, and I absolutely need fuel. If I were to be in such a situation, and I encountered one of your sophomoric stunts where you replaced the nozzle with one too big to fit the tank and thus delayed me getting fuel, I would be very upset. I personally do not mind being the subject of people's amusement, and I have a good sense of humor. But in such a scenario, if you guys were the cause of me not making a critical meeting or being able to get to a customer on time, I would not be amused. No amount of "smile and look into the camera" would make up for the possible missed obligations I encountered because of your shenanigans. Stop screwing with those of us who have no desire to participate and cannot tolerate those sort of interruptions to our schedule.
—Don Ramsey, Los Altos Hills, California

     I agree with the comment about being careful about what you use to trick people. I am an "old" lady with age problems of muscle control and not being able to get to the bathroom when needed is not a pleasant experience. The key to the bathroom at the service station was a good idea but I know why the older man took the wheel with him! I really do like the show and have watched your Allen since I was a little girl. Peter, you are doing a great job; keep up the good work.
—Doreen Garrett, Medford, Ore.

THE 'SHUT UP' QUESTION
     My family loves to gather and watch Candid Camera. It is probably the funniest show on TV right now...but...you've been ending your segments with someone shouting, "Shut up!" I don't know about where you are, but around this area that is tantamount to swearing. It's a very ugly phrase, and our children are not allowed to say that. We love your show, but will not be able to continue watching it if you keep using that nasty language.
—The Stoffel Family, Antwerp, N.Y.

     I wish you would stop the little "shut up" b.s. at the end of each skit. It is extremely offensive and very out of character with your show. The message you think you're portraying and the message you're getting across are two different things. You can do better than this.
—Bill Malone

     I would like to make a comment on your song. The words include "shut up." Your show is one of the few family shows and my kids were questioning the song. I just wanted to share this with you. Thanks for a great show.
—Ms. Crawford

[Peter's reply: When Little Richard recorded his version of the Candid Camera song, he added the phrase "shut up" as a sort of contemporary punctuation mark. We decided to cut it out of our opening theme, but we left it in the "stings" that are heard at the end of sequences. Believe me, as a parent of two young children I am sensitive to what they hear on TV and radio. But I don't believe that Richard's ad-lib crosses the line. I think it's clear that he's just being playful.]

A SMILE A DAY…
     What joy your show brings to so many. It eases the tension in one's life, and brings smiles to so many faces. Keep up the good work.
—Imogene Fowler

     Our country needs more programs like yours. I love your show. Unfortunately it is not long enough - but it's funny enough to relax me and have a great time! I hope they keep your program for my five and three year-old grandkids to enjoy when they grow up!
—Sarah Moriano

     I watch your show on a regular basis. Your show brings laughter to my home. As a matter of fact, I remember watching your show when I was just a little girl, with my parents. For the past couple of years, I have tried to plan surprises (example, birthday parties, etc) for my husband. Each time he has found out. I would so much like to invite Candid Camera to Atlanta, Georgia, to surprise my husband and children in any which way.
—Denise Tischler

     I have been a huge Candid Camera for years now. It has been continuously funny with laughs that can certainly heal the heart. I look forward to the show every Friday and record if I'm not home. The Candid Camera staff is terrific and keeps getting better. We appreciate all the laughs.
—K & C Little

SAD NOTE
     I love your show! Unfortunately I am writing with a sad note. My uncle died on Sunday. When Allen died you did a show in his honor and ended it with a beautiful song. Could you give me the name and author of that song? I would love to play it at the service. I watch you every week and I think you are the best show on TV.
—Maureen Sinko

[Peter's reply: The song "Smile," sung by Nat King Cole and written by silent-film star Charlie Chaplin, was one of my Dad's favorites. Our condolences to your family.]