There's a simple explanation for all that. Columbo's young nephew Frank had been playing with Columbo's badge, so his indulgent uncle made a copy of his own ID card (but blanked out the signature) and gave it, along with a wallet and tin badge, to his little nephew so he could play Homocide Detective all the time.
However, the absent-minded Columbo accidentally took Frank's fake badge, leaving Frank in possession of the REAL Columbo's ID. The Lieutenant didn't realize that the switch had occurred until after returning from the General's house, at which time he got his REAL badge, on which is written his actual and still unknown first name. No doubt that comical scene was left on the cutting-room floor during the editing process.
The problem with everyone's theory is that Columbo never had a first name. As far as i can remember the creators never gave him one at the beginning and it has since stayed that way except for people who write books, cards, games and fake i.d. cards calling him Philip, Frank, Bob, Tina, Betty or whatever else sells these products.
For some unfathomable reason this is seen as unacceptable for some and that he must and it therefore must be known, its not. That simple, accept it and get on with life.
Now that was said with lots of love and not in any way as an insult to anyone at all just sick of this topic.
That was funny Matthew!
Yes, I think it is time to put this puppy to bed.....well....at least until next month where it will come up again!
But Mat, I am liking your idea of 'Betty Columbo'....it has a nice ring to it!!
I wonder if this wins the most boring pointless thread topic ever (not this one thread but them all). Even seeing it makes me sigh and shake my head. Let it die.
Maybe we should have a big flashing sign that pops up when you come into the site making it perfectly clear.
The name as it appears in the mystery photo is none other than *drum roll*...........
..........................
......................................
......................Joseph. Joseph Columbo. Sounds weird. Joe Columbo that's it. So they actually never say it in the entire show? It's very clear in the photo. But the last name on there doesn't look like "Columbo".
the sun rises in the East and sets in the West, birds fly south for the winter, cherry trees bloom in the spring, and people on the Columbo forum have this discussion.
thank you for helping me feel safe tonight, in this sometimes unpredictable world.
laura