Back in the seventies, my grandad loved watching Columbo. He admired how the detective never missed a detail and always got the suspect to trip over their own words. “He’s a clever one, that Columbo,” he would say. To my grandad, Columbo was real, and in a way, he was right.
Key points
The Birth of Columbo
Typecasting is a common concern for TV actors, yet few have embraced it like Peter Falk. While William Link and Richard Levinson created Columbo, it was Falk who truly made the character his own. Interestingly, Falk wasn’t the first actor to play Columbo. The character debuted in a 1960 episode of The Chevy Mystery Show, portrayed by Bert Freed. Later, the role transitioned to the stage in Prescription: Murder, where Thomas Mitchell took the lead. It wasn’t until the 1968 TV movie that Falk donned the iconic rumpled overcoat, a role he almost missed when Bing Crosby turned it down.
In that first film, Columbo was a bit harsher, even lying to get confessions. However, as the series evolved, Falk’s portrayal became more nuanced. By the time the show became a regular series, Falk had honed his craft, thanks to his work with directors like John Cassavetes. This experience allowed him to immerse himself deeply into the character of Columbo.
The Evolution of a Detective
The first Columbo episode, directed by a young Steven Spielberg, set the stage for a series that would last over three decades. The episode titled “Murder by the Book” showcased a conflict between two mystery writers, written by Steven Bochco, who later created Hill Street Blues. Link and Levinson took a step back, knowing Falk would keep the show’s quality high.
Falk was dedicated to maintaining the integrity of Columbo. He often clashed with writers and directors over details that didn’t fit the character. He wanted to keep the focus on Columbo, avoiding sidekicks and car chases that would distract from the character study at the heart of the show.
A Unique Detective
Falk’s performances are a masterclass in acting. He faced off against some of the best actors in American television, including William Shatner and Patrick McGoohan. Each episode was a battle of wits, with Falk’s Columbo always coming out on top. The appeal of a detective who never fails is undeniable. Viewers were drawn to Falk’s eccentricity, patience, and intelligence, all wrapped in a gentlemanly demeanor.
Columbo’s politeness towards his suspects added a unique charm to the show. Unlike Agatha Christie’s characters, who lived in a fantasy world, Columbo was a contemporary figure. In his last episode, Columbo Likes The Nightlife, he even explored the nightlife of the 21st century.
A Nostalgic Connection
Whenever I watch Columbo, I think of my grandad, sitting in his Windsor chair, cheering for the little detective. We would watch together, and despite our age difference, we both enjoyed the show equally. We would celebrate when Columbo would pause, turn, and say, “Just one more thing,” delivering the final blow that would unravel the killer’s defenses.
Even as an adult, I was thrilled to see Falk in The Princess Bride, where he played the grandfather. His playful banter with Fred Savage added depth to the film, making it more than just a fairy tale.
Falk’s Lasting Legacy
However, Falk’s most profound legacy may be his role in Wim Wenders’ Wings of Desire. In this film, he plays himself, reflecting on life and legacy. Wenders chose Falk for his “gentleness and generosity.” Falk embraced the role, allowing him to improvise and be himself. In a poignant moment, we learn that Falk, once an angel, chose to give up immortality to experience life fully. He had no regrets.
Falk’s calm wisdom resonates with audiences, offering reassurance in our most vulnerable moments. He is remembered not just as Columbo, but as a man who understood the complexities of life.
Conclusion
Peter Falk’s portrayal of Columbo left an indelible mark on television history. His unique blend of charm, intelligence, and humor made the character unforgettable. As we remember Falk, we celebrate not just the detective he played, but the warmth and wisdom he brought to every role. He remains a beloved figure, forever among the angels.
