Tuesday, April 17, 2007

Wesley Autrey: Subway Hero!; Conned Man?

This New York Magazine story on Wesley Autrey, New York City's "Subway Hero," made me unhappy. Autrey, as you may recall, leapt from a subway platform to save an ill man from a certain death. Afterwards, Autrey acheived a bit of notoriety and was honored at the 2007 State of Union. In fact, his appearance was the highlight of the speech.

Autrey is basically the head of a large family, and a lot of people have wanted to help him out with donations and endorsements. Unfortunately, he seems to have fallen prey to lawyers and entertainment people who, according to Autrey, rushed him into signing a contract whereby 50% of whatever profits he made would go to them.

Wow, sounds like the recording industry of the 1950s and 1960s in regards to black artists. But at least Autrey gets 50%... sheesh.

I really hope that he's able to get himself out of this horrible contract and into one that's more sane and realistic. The man's got a big family to help out. Good luck. You're gonna need it along with a good lawyer.

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