from: Linda Howard ~

Dear Joel,

We’ve known each other since filming RED HEAT under the watchful eye of the late, great Bennie Dobbins. I remember him proudly introducing you saying, “Keep an eye on him. He’s going to be a great coordinator one day.” He was absolutely correct. Your record of excellence and safety solidly speaks for itself. I would put my life in your hands without hesitation. For anyone to infer that you would intentionally cause harm of any kind out of spite or reprisal is simply reprehensible. The stunt community is a family. They depend on each other’s timing, expertise and occasionally heroic acts to protect one another and the actors placed in their charge.

As with any family, there are members who’ve lost their way and needed help. None of us are perfect, but it’s how we pick ourselves up and deal with what may be thrown at us that speaks to our integrity and character. When I was made aware of the charges being leveled at you I was, for lack of a better word, gobsmacked! An accusation of impropriety with a minor….a 12 year old child. Nope. No way. The story does not hold water and I for one, do not doubt your innocence. The fact that this is now a “she said, he said” with wild claims that are easily disputed if given a chance is disgusting. If any member of the stunt community had an inkling that a child molester was within it’s ranks, it would have been dealt with internally and harshly by the stunt community. That I have no question. The damage being done to you and your family is without merit.

I have always been outspoken when I believe in a person or a cause. My husband gave me two nicknames that have lasted, Linda “Dog with a Bone” Howard and “The Little General” have described my tenacity and determination. I was in part elected multiple times to serve as Vice-President and President of The Stuntwomen’s Association of Motion Pictures, Inc., for those strengths. If I believed a stuntwoman was being treated unfairly on any level, I spoke up…loudly. My financial situation at the time allowed me to take the hit and still pay my rent. Numerous stuntwomen did not have that ability. I am proud of the women that are now coming forward and calling the monsters out. We are experiencing a power that has eluded us for far too long. However, having that power comes with enormous responsibility. We must proceed with diligence and clear thoughts. Peoples lives are being ruined. Some deserve their penance, but there are those that I believe have been maligned, tried and sentenced due to merely an accusation. Those misplaced and false accusations will make it all the more difficult for the women with legitimate claims to be heard. I, for one, believe that this is what has happened to you. I know I’m not the only one

Hold your head high knowing the truth and how your colleagues within the stunt community continue to respect and appreciate your talent and dedication.

Take care,

Linda

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Linda Howard

Former President The Stuntwomen’s Association of Motion Pictures, Inc.

President Ken Howard Productions

Executive Board The Onyx and Breezy Foundation