November 9, 2011

Hal Kanter’s passing is the end of a very important era.  Early on, he recognized the cultural changes that television needed to address in order to remain a viable representation both in the industry and to the viewing audience.  Our relationship became important to our family & friends as they observed our dedication to learning from each other about racial prejudice in both the white and black communities.  His wife Doris was always supportive as we struggled over many disagreements with the networks over the subject.

Hal was responsible for transforming my career from the Broadway stage and film, to television, by creating the role of “Julia”.  He will always be cherished  for entrusting her character  to me.   I will never forget my first meeting with him.  When he saw me across the room, he said to my agent, “That’s the kind of girl we need - an average housewife.”  Upon hearing this, I said to him, “Yes, an average housewife in couture Givenchy.”

He was such a wonderful, sweet man.  I will miss him deeply and always hold him dear.

Diahann