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: Mrs. Columbo‘s “A Riddle for Puppets”

Tread Perilously‘s first Grab Bag month of the year concludes with a look at the infamous Mrs. Columbo via the episode called “A Riddle for Puppets.”

When ventriloquist and puppet maker Victor March is murdered, police are baffled by the killing. They believe it’s a robbery, but Kate Columbo suspects something else when she meets March’s former protege, Noel Abbott. A ventriloquist of some renown, he has seemingly lost control of his dummy, who both refuses to do their routines and openly admits he hates Abbott. But this is all just Abbott externalizing his own issues, right? Will Kate be able to wrangle a confession for Abbott or will his dummy squeal?

Erik’s Kate Mulgrew impression gets a workout. The difference between Kate Columbo and Mrs. Columbo is explored. Justin delivers more understanding about Night Court. Both outline a 1950s version of The Terminator. Another reason why Mulgrew was miscast as Columbo’s wife is discovered. Ventriloquism turns out to be a virulent disease. Pinhead returns to reveal more of Hell’s hierarchy and why improv is so important. A special warning is issued about the Black Forest. A portal of weeds opens when the pair try to explain “Clown can’t talk,” and Crackers the Demon Puppet makes his debut.

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