Kino Lorber has announced that there will be Blu-Ray releases of "Columbo" in two segments (70s and 90s). These episodes will be loaded with extras including apparently commentaries on probably just about every episode much in the way their releases of "Kolchak" and "Night Gallery" were similarly loaded.

This will mean remastering that will make the episodes look better than ever. For bonus material it may be wishful thinking but wouldn't it be great if (1) the Mystery Movie open was restored for each episode and (2) is it possible some deleted footage for certain episodes might still exist? Perhaps for instance the cut scenes from "Double Exposure" when it was supposed to run 2 hours?

Whatever the case in an era where classic TV on physical media is becoming more scarce this will be a welcome upgrade for those of us who appreciated our old faithful DVD releases but always bemoaned the lack of bonus material beyond "Mrs. Columbo" episodes.

One small detail I'd like to see added: I've seen "The Conspirators" on TV several times and each time it had the wonderful Irish score playing alongside the scene where Columbo crosses the bridge in pursuit of the Ilkan Tak, as it absconded with the guns. When I purchased the DVDs I was disappointed that the music wasn't there. It makes that scene SO much better.

I've been in contact with one of the producers of this set.
I asked him about the music problems with THE CONSPIRATORS. He is aware of it and is making every effort to acquire a complete print.

The one extra I most desire is the ORIGINAL ninety minute version of ETUDE IN BLACK. This version was aired in Canada and included in the Japanese bluray box set. They are attempting to include this coveted rarity.

Can't wait!

I've never heard of this version of Etude in Black. What else can you tell about it?

Also, how did you get in touch with a producer of the set? That's pretty cool. Thank you for checking with him!

" Etude in Black" was scheduled as the first aired episode of season two.
All the first season episodes were ninety minutes.ETUDE was written, filmed, and completed as a ninety minute episode.At the last minute NBC decided - for financial reasons- that they wanted it to be a showcase, TWO-hour premiere. This necessitated shooting additional scenes to extend the running time. The most obvious being where Lt.visits Benedict at home and talks property values etc.
The original , shorter version was sent to the Canadian tv network and that version was broadcast there.

Many years ago I published an article about the MUSIC for COLUMBO so have been in contact with folks who produce books and DVDs about the show

Update:
Commentary tracks are being recorded by Scott Skelton and Mark Dawidziak.
I was asked to record a short segment discussing the music for RANSOM FOR A DEAD MAN.

More to come!

Release date is now listed as November 21.

I am hoping that among other things we might see the Mystery Movie openings restored.