Mr. Entertainment

I want to thank you for your wonderful interview with the legendary Gene Kelly (“It’s Been So Entertaining,” by Hilary de Vries, May 1).

I have long been an admirer of Kelly’s work, as I am a huge fan of movies from the ‘40s and ‘50s. Kelly is second only to Fred Astaire in talent, even though their styles are so very different.

As for Kelly’s “dancer’s instrument,” it was thrilling to watch him in action, especially in the classic “Singin’ in the Rain” with Debbie Reynolds and Donald O’Connor.

DENE PRESTON

Los Angeles

For the most part I did enjoy De Vries’ take on Gene Kelly, especially the references to his opinion about Louis B. Mayer. At one point De Vries quotes Kelly: “ ‘I hated the man,’ he says simply.”

Later in the story, De Vries writes, “Indeed, Kelly remains ambivalent . . . about Mayer.”Indeed. Kelly must regret that his comment sounded a mite wishy-washy to De Vries. I can only hope that in future interviews Kelly learns to speak more plainly.

MARVIN PETAL

Oxnard

I’m sure Katharine Hepburn, Greer Garson and James Stewart are greatly amused at Kelly’s promotion to the oldest living alum of the late great MGM. Long may all their stars glow.

LUISA F. RIBEIRO

West Los Angeles