The legacy of renowned ‘Columbo’ writer Howard Berk lives on through his family as they continue his writing tradition. Howard Berk, best known for his work on iconic TV series like ‘Columbo’ and ‘Mission Impossible’, passed away in 2016 at the age of 91. His son, Peter Berk, and grandson, Jordan Berk, have both followed in his footsteps and established themselves as novelists, carrying forward the family’s literary heritage.
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Peter Berk reflects on his father’s unwavering commitment to his craft, recalling the challenging yet fulfilling experience of witnessing Howard at work on television episodes. Alongside his acclaimed screenwriting, Howard was a versatile writer who delved into various genres, including World War II novels and science fiction. Peter fondly remembers his father’s literary prowess, citing Howard as his favourite writer, embodying a deep admiration for his dad’s literary skills and versatility.
Prior to Howard’s passing, Peter and his father collaborated on a series of screenplays, laying the foundation for Peter’s TimeLock book series. Drawing inspiration from a screenplay they co-wrote, Peter ventured into novel writing, eventually bringing the TimeLock series to life. Despite initial challenges, Peter found a publisher for the series, with the latest release, ‘TimeLock 3: The Millennium Paradox’, hitting the shelves in July 2025.
The family’s writing legacy extends to the next generation, with Peter’s son, Jordan Berk, also embracing the art of storytelling. Motivated by his father’s creative pursuits, Jordan, a software engineer by profession, dedicated his time during the pandemic to craft his own novel. His debut work, ‘The Timestream Verdict’, was published in 2024, marking a significant milestone in the Berk family’s literary journey.
Peter and Jordan both inject humour into their narratives, balancing darker themes with light-hearted elements to engage readers. While their writing styles may differ, the common thread of creativity and storytelling prowess binds the father-son duo. Reflecting on their authorial ventures, both Peter and Jordan acknowledge Howard’s profound influence on their writing journeys, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defined their family dynamic.
As Peter continues to expand the TimeLock series and explores screen adaptation possibilities, he pays homage to his father’s enduring impact on the entertainment industry. Peter notes the resurgence of interest in Howard’s works, paralleling the renewed popularity of related genres in contemporary media. Meanwhile, Jordan, balancing writing with family responsibilities, envisions a future where his passion for storytelling continues to evolve alongside personal milestones.
The Berks honour Howard’s memory by perpetuating his creative legacy through their writing endeavours, embodying a deep sense of familial connection and artistic tribute. Through their collective works, Peter and Jordan celebrate the enduring influence of Howard Berk, a prolific storyteller whose legacy resonates through generations. Their dedication to maintaining the family’s literary tradition serves as a testament to the indelible mark Howard left on the world of storytelling.