ProMom Media Watch
NBC's Frasier

Letter Writing Opportunity - NBC's Frasier
Here is a sample letter to the producers of the hit sitcom Frasier (NBC, Tuesday nights). As you may be aware, "Roz", Dr. Frasier Crane's assistant on the show, has had a baby girl. She is a single mother. We are writing to the producer in the hopes that they will have her breastfeed. It would be a great role model and a great message. There are four Executive Producers for Frasier at Grub Street Productions. It would seem best to send all letters to Mr. Angell and then, if possible, to the rest. That way, at least one of them will be inundated with our letters. The Producers's names are: David Angell, Peter Casey, David Lee and Christopher Lloyd. As always feel free to personalize a bit, if you can.

David Angell
Grub Street Productions
5555 Melrose Avenue
Wilder Building
Los Angeles, CA 90038

Frasier@nbc.com

Please make sure to include your email or phone number in the last line of this letter.

Dear Mr. Angell:

As I'm sure you are well aware, television has a tremendous impact on what we as a culture deem "socially acceptable." Because "Frasier" is an extremely popular show, it has tremendous potential for positive influence on its viewers. Not simply a comedy, "Frasier" deals with issues in contemporary society and shows characters with a depth that is atypical of much of prime time television. Thus, it is important that your characters make believable decisions that are sympathetic to many of your viewers.

You have the opportunity to address the concerns of new mothers in your handling of Roz' pregnancy. I believe that it is important that she breastfeeds her baby. Breastfeeding is not only Nature's intended means of nourishing infants, but it is also healthier and more economical than formula feeding. Breastfed babies have fewer health problems than bottle fed babies, including less incidence of allergies, ear infections, and SIDS. In addition, research indicates that breastfed babies have cognitive and developmental advantages over formula-fed youngsters. Then too, the average family can save up to $1500 on formula by exclusively breastfeeding their baby for one year.

Breastfeeding also provides tremendous comedic potential. Aside from battles with formula trained nannies, grannies, and others, there is a wonder to the process of nursing which is in keeping with the warm humor typical of "Frasier." In particular, breastfeeding-friendly men, such as are exemplified by the very enlightened Frasier, are prone to comical predicaments. For example, whose needs come first, the baby's or Frasier's, when Roz is needed for a production task? Many working mothers successfully breastfeed, either by pumping milk during breaks for the baby's feedings the next day or by visiting the baby at day care for "lunch." Working mothers in particular can use breastfeeding as a tool to "connect" after a long day apart. The challenges are great but the rewards are worth it.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently issued a policy statement on the importance of breastfeeding during at least the first year of life. Sadly, many have been vocal about how unrealistic this is. As a full time employed, breastfeeding mother of a toddler, I can assure you that nursing is not a burdensome duty but a joyous experience -- and one which an educated, informed woman such as Roz would choose. In doing so, "Frasier" could provide a very positive model for mothers who are undecided as to how to feed their children, as well as providing moral support to those women who are already breastfeeding. La Leche League International (1-800-LA LECHE) can provide you with a wealth of information on breastfeeding should you require it.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

Sincerely,