Opinions about Exploitation and Fandom

I’m ambivalent about fandom. I think if Starsky & Hutch can insight people somehow or inspire them to do something for themselves, I think that’s great. But I think that any time that you raise somebody up and hold that for 20 to 25 years, you know, and not move on with your own life, the first thing I want to say to these people is, ’GET A LIFE.’

Regarding merchandising and image use: I think these people are jackals. The public has a right to know about people to whom they tune in. There has to be a certain accessibility — you can’t turn your nose up at the public. But I don’t hold much truck with people who go out and make small fortunes based on other people’s talents. In my case, I’m more interested in doing my work well than having my face printed on a T-shirt … It’s ridiculous. I want it known that I don’t condone it and I don’t like it.

Regarding David’s wish for his fans in light of personal exploitation by sellers on eBay and similar sites and the advantage taken of fans by their offering photos and other memorabilia (many of which are copyrighted and being distributed illegally) that mean and accomplish nothing in the scheme of things other than to make money for the sellers: I don’t like the idea of being in the position of watching my likeness or my name or the images of me being sold piecemeal when I don’t want to have anything to do with them. … I’m really not into the personality cult type of thing nor am I into charity organizations for the sake of using my face. These days, “celebrity” and faces, etc., are exploited for all the wrong reasons. … My photo with signature is not going to change the face of real service to those who need it. It only embarrasses me. … Please have a think about what I’ve said. What I would want is that people who have enjoyed what I do get involved on a personal basis, in their local communities … doing hands-on work with those who need our love and attention the most.