Columbo: Season 3, Episode 5Publish or Perish (18 Jan. 1974)A publisher hires a bomb enthusiast to murder a bestselling author of sex novels. Lt. Columbo is on the case. Director:Robert Butler |
|
| 0Share... |
Columbo: Season 3, Episode 5Publish or Perish (18 Jan. 1974)A publisher hires a bomb enthusiast to murder a bestselling author of sex novels. Lt. Columbo is on the case. Director:Robert Butler |
|
| 0Share... |
| Episode cast overview, first billed only: | |||
| Peter Falk | ... | ||
| Jack Cassidy | ... |
Riley Greenleaf
|
|
|
|
Mickey Spillane | ... |
Alan Mallory
|
| Mariette Hartley | ... |
Eileen McRae
|
|
| Jacques Aubuchon | ... |
Jeffrey Neal
|
|
|
|
John Davis Chandler | ... |
Eddie Kane
(as John Chandler)
|
| Gregory Sierra | ... |
Lou D'Allessandro
|
|
| Alan Fudge | ... |
David Chase, Riley's lawyer
|
|
| Paul Shenar | ... |
Sgt. Lou Young
|
|
| Jack Bender | ... |
Norman Wolpert
|
|
|
|
Ted Gehring | ... |
Security Guard
|
|
|
Vern Rowe | ... |
Restaurant Manager
|
|
|
Lew Palter | ... |
Lab Technician
|
|
|
George Brenlin | ... |
Black the Locksmith
|
|
|
J.S. Johnson | ... |
Palmer
|
Riley Greenleaf is a publisher and Alan Mallory, a successful writer, is his principal asset. But Alan Mallory has decided to change publishers. Riley threatens to kill Alan. Then he hires Eddie Kane, a Vietnam veteran, to murder Alan and to leave evidence that the killer is Riley himself, who has an excellent alibi. But a key will betray him. Written by Baldinotto da Pistoia
There are Columbo episodes, and there are Columbo episodes. For the most part, Peter Falk is consistent as the consummate Lt. Columbo, so what makes certain episodes shine are those who play in the role of his adversary. Robert Culp and Patrick McGoohan readily come to mind, as does Jack Cassidy, in his several (I believe three) appearances in various episodes, including this one. Cassidy never disappoints. He is cool and sly, often paying "left-handed" compliments to the good Lieutenant as the cat and mouse game ensues. Add to Cassidy's performance this great story and script, and you've got one of the classic episodes.