SAVE TITUS

WE the undersigned, are writing in support of the FOX television program "Titus", in an attempt to keep the program on the air, and to improve the FOX programming schedule.

While it is understood that placing a television program on hiatus does not equal cancellation, it is often a "kiss of death" for that program. In the early 1990's, the innovative program "Twin Peaks" was placed on hiatus, causing a major disruption for viewers attempting to follow the eccentric storyline. Eventually, that program was cancelled.

"Titus" is another innovative program for several reasons:

-Unlike the majority of television programs, "Titus" is recorded live in one "take". The actors perform each episode as if it were a play. The only other programs employing this method are live broadcasts of shows such as "Saturday Night Live".

-The comedic style of "Titus" lacks the stereotypical exaggeration of most sitcoms. Many programs place characters in unbelievable situations, and the characters must use extreme methods of resolution. The same cannot be said for "Titus". The circumstances of the program are realistic, and the actions and reactions of the characters are realistic.

-The characters of Titus do not apologize for their shortcomings or their idiosyncrasies. In many sitcoms, a characters addiction (Kens drinking) or a familys dysfunctionality would be covered up, or possibly resolved in one episode, and the characters would live happily ever after. Titus thrives on placing its characters directly in the epicenter of conflict, with no possible resolution in sight. It offers realistic solutions for realistic problems, and does not take the easy road out.

Titus is a form of therapy for many viewers. If the ability to laugh in the face of ones problems or challenges can be gained from witnessing the success of another who overcame his or her adversities, then a television program about such a person must be allowed to succeed. It must be promoted properly, and must not be an afterthought in the programming schedule of a major television network. After three seasons, Titus is still as fresh as the first episode. Television viewers do not need copycat programming. We have had enough of the Survivor clones. We have had enough of the extreme game shows. Titus is the only program on television since Roseanne to deal successfully with hard issues like addiction, abuse, and mental illness. It does not mock these afflictions; it instead attempts to offer an alternative solution through comedy.

Please reconsider the relocation of Titus within your programming schedule. It does not deserve to be buried in the tomb of the ignored. It should not be treated like FOXs redheaded stepchild. Thats Daves job and he does it well.