Columbo 2x1 -

John Cassavetes, a close real-life friend of Peter Falk. Their natural chemistry is often cited as a highlight of the episode. Runtime: Approximately 91 minutes. All Columbo episodes ranked - IMDb

The Columbo Season 2 premiere, originally aired on September 17, 1972. Directed by Nicholas Colasanto and starring Peter Falk , the episode is highly regarded and frequently ranked among the series' top entries. Case Summary Columbo 2x1

The plot centers on (played by John Cassavetes), a world-renowned maestro and conductor of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Benedict is involved in an extramarital affair with a young pianist, Jenifer Welles . When Jenifer threatens to expose their relationship to Benedict’s wealthy wife, Janice, he murders her and stages the scene to look like a suicide by gas inhalation. Key Evidence & "The Gotcha" John Cassavetes, a close real-life friend of Peter Falk

Benedict claims he put the flower on in his dressing room after the concert. Columbo highlights the illogical nature of this—no performer puts on their stage attire after the show is over. All Columbo episodes ranked - IMDb The Columbo

Lieutenant Columbo’s suspicion is initially piqued by minor inconsistencies at the crime scene, eventually leading to a definitive piece of evidence involving a flower:

This discrepancy proves Benedict was at Jenifer's house (where the flower was lost) during the time of the murder, ultimately forcing a confession. Production Details Director: Nicholas Colasanto.

Benedict traditionally wears a white carnation during his performances. Columbo discovers that Benedict was missing this flower during his televised concert but was wearing one immediately after.