Benjamin, frankly. (reader forum).

Thanks so much for the cover story on the outspoken Benjamin Bratt ["Unspoiled Bratt," March 5]. It's refreshing to hear from a hetero celebrity who's clearly comfortable enough with his own sexuality to be frank about playing a bisexual role. His work in Pinero was gutsy--and a real revelation for me, since I'd only ever seen him on Law & Order--and his Advocate interview was equally provocative. I look forward to see what this bold and open-minded actor does next.

Lane Edmondson Holman Atlanta, Ga.

Brooke Shields. Judy Davis. Ben Stiller. Gale Harold. And now Benjamin Bratt. While I agree that it's great that straight actors are willing to play gay and gay-friendly roles, I wonder why they turn up so often as the cover stories for "the national gay and lesbian newsmagazine." How many cover stories on "white friends of the black community" could Ebony magazine run before people wondered what was up? For that matter, how many "Al Jolson and other actors in blackface" cover stories would the black community stand for? If we as a gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community are worthy of having a newsmagazine like The Advocate--and we are--aren't we worthy of being the cover stories? I think The Advocate can do a better job of representing our community.

Lee Wind, Los Angeles, Calif.