Tread Perilously is a podcast in which hosts Erik Amaya and author Justin Robinson watch the “worst” episodes of popular TV shows, attempting to determine if they would continue to watch the series based on the most off-key moments.

This Week: Columbo‘s “Last Salute to the Commodore”

Tread Perilously begins a new year with four TV shows completely new to the podcast. “The New Class” Month begins with Columbo and “Last Salute to the Commodore.”

When a shipping magnate and sailing enthusiast goes missing, Detective Columbo becomes involved in a case of mistaken identities, unlikely romances, and at least one instance of rampant alcoholism. Although it is fairly clear special guest star Robert Vaughn is the killer, the plot pivots when he also turns up dead. Will Columbo be able to determine the circumstances of both murders in an incredible parlor scene?

Erik is delighted to feature an episode of television directed by The Prisoner‘s Patrick McGoohan. Justin is delighted to attempt a Columbo impression. Ridley Scott ends up on the hot seat for some reason. Justin declares star Peter Falk’s performance in Murder By Death as that film’s funniest. He also comes around to The Vicar of Dibley. The pair are shocked to discover Columbo is a very tactile detective. Robert Vaughn gets praised, as does guest star Diane Baker, who you may remember from a certain classic thriller. Falk’s status as an angel is clarified, and Justin figures out how Columbo would deal with the Pevensie children in Narnia.

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