Perceptions count. I was not aware of the convoluted history between Eric Monte and Norman Lear. No nor did I know about the behind the scenes machinations that led to changing the character of those groundbreaking shows which ultimately led to part of the core cast moving on. The ultimate injustice of course is that Eric Monte was denied later in his life from enjoying the fruits of his accomplishments. It is particularly disappointing that Norman Lear, a secure rich white producer, was blind to the respect and accolades due Monte. When he was struggling, human decency if nothing else, would have demanded he reach out and do something to help the writer who was an important part of his own success. We see this too often. Hopefully in the 45 years since, society has changed and we are less colorblind to these kinds of issues. I would like to think that Monte laid the groundwork for opportunity and success by new generations of black writers and that history will treat him kindly. He deserves better. Time will tell.