Michael Connelly reveals 'Bosch' origins, honoring creator Eric Overmyer
Bosch eventually became Prime Video’s longest-running show
Watching scripted series via streaming has become the norm today, and it's fascinating to think that what we now call SVOD platforms were once seen as a risky endeavor 15 years ago.
Michael Connelly, a bestselling author, recently reflected on this while remembering the talented TV writer-producer Eric Overmyer, who passed away on March 16 at the age of 74.
“About 15 years ago, I met with Eric Overmyer in New York City to discuss the possibility of him becoming the showrunner/creator for a TV series based on my Harry Bosch books,” Connelly shared on Instagram alongside a photo with Overmyer and Bosch actor Titus Welliver.
“I had met Eric briefly before, and he seemed to have a deep understanding of Bosch’s character.”
Pitching the idea to Overmyer, known for co-creating Treme and writing for Homicide, Law & Order, and The Wire, wasn’t straightforward.
“There was a twist. The series would debut on a then-new television format called streaming. Amazon was just beginning to explore this, and Bosch would be its first drama,” Connelly continued.
“Halfway through our pitch, Eric interrupted us, saying, ‘I’m not sure if you’re auditioning me or I’m auditioning you, but I’m in.’ And that’s how it all began.”
Bosch eventually became Prime Video’s longest-running show, lasting seven seasons and becoming its first franchise, with two spinoffs, including Bosch: Legacy, co-created and produced by Overmyer and Connelly.
This success sparked renewed TV interest in Connelly’s stories, leading to another flourishing adaptation, Netflix’s The Lincoln Lawyer.
“We went on to create 98 episodes of what I consider one of the finest detective tales ever shown on TV,” Connelly remarked about Bosch.
“None of this would have been possible without Eric. Though he’s gone, his storytelling remains. Rest in peace, my friend.”