What can I do with a script for a mystery television program?

Question

I have a script for "Columbo", and it's pretty good stuff. I'd like to do what the original author wanted to do, but never did; I'd like to send it somewhere. Trouble is: Peter Falk isn't doing "Columbo" these days. It reads like it might make a "CSI" episode, but that program is probably locked up pretty tight. So, what to do with it? Well, if it were going to a magazine, I would take out the script markings, and turn it into a regular story. Could I leave "Columbo" in it, or would I have to change his name and character a bit? If I were sending it to television, I'd send a synopsis first, of course. Any ideas?

Answer 1

Why not turn into a totally new series.

A new "columbo" type show might run well.

Generic it.

Make sure you don't leave any "columboisms" in.

Then write someone like Jerry Brukheimer and tell him you have a new show idea and ask if you can submit.

They will probalby re-write it, make sure you get at least bottom credit as Creator and get at least 20% of the fee and ask for a job of Story Editor for the first season.