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Falk Not First Choice? Crosby Eyed for Columbo Role
10 Oct
Summary
- Creators Levinson and Link initially wanted Bing Crosby for Columbo.
- Falk played the iconic detective in 69 installments from 1968 to 2003.
- Crosby was praised for his dramatic acting and laid-back persona.
The beloved character of Lieutenant Frank Columbo, known for his disheveled appearance and sharp mind, was almost portrayed by a different Hollywood legend. Before Peter Falk was cast in the iconic role, "Columbo" creators Richard Levinson and William Link had approached Oscar-winning actor and singer Bing Crosby. They admired Crosby's dramatic acting abilities, citing his performance in "Man on Fire," and felt his laid-back persona would have fit the detective.
Falk, who passed away in 2011, became synonymous with the character, playing the role across 69 installments. These included two pilot movies and 67 episodes and specials that aired between 1968 and 2003. His portrayal earned him multiple Emmy and Golden Globe awards, solidifying "Columbo" as one of television's best detective shows.
