Ep 1. Columbo Goes to College

In the season 10 premiere of Columbo, titled "Columbo Goes to College," the beloved detective is called in to investigate the murder of a professor at a prestigious university.

The episode begins with a group of professors and students gathered for a symposium celebrating the work of Dr. Howard Nicholson, a renowned scholar in the field of psychology. During the event, Dr. Nicholson is approached by a young female student who is upset with her grade in his class. The two have a heated exchange, and later that night, Nicholson is found dead in his office.

Columbo arrives on the scene and immediately begins investigating the case. He interviews the various witnesses, including the student who argued with Nicholson, the victim’s wife and colleagues. As the investigation progresses, Columbo begins to uncover a web of lies and deceit within the seemingly tranquil university community.

One of the prime suspects in the case is Dr. Roger Stanford, a fellow professor who had a history of disagreements with Nicholson. Another potential suspect is the victim’s wife, who had a contentious relationship with him. As Columbo digs deeper into the case, he begins to uncover hidden motives and secrets that lead him to unexpected conclusions.

Throughout the episode, fans will be treated to all the classic Columbo tropes they know and love – the rumpled trench coat, the disheveled hair, and the “just one more thing” that ultimately unravels the case. But in this episode, there’s an added element of sophistication and intellectualism, as the crime takes place in the hallowed halls of academia.

One of the highlights of “Columbo Goes to College” is the stellar cast, which includes several notable guest stars. Emmy winner Daniel Roebuck (“Lost,” “The Fugitive”) makes a memorable appearance as a student who may have witnessed something important on the night of the murder. Meanwhile, Wendie Malick (“Just Shoot Me!”) delivers a standout performance as a professor with a connection to the victim.

As always, the episode is packed with clues, red herrings, and plenty of misdirection that will keep viewers guessing until the very end. And of course, it all builds to a satisfying final reveal that only the inimitable Columbo could piece together.

Overall, “Columbo Goes to College” is a strong start to the tenth season of this beloved detective series. Fans of the show will delight in the return of Peter Falk as the iconic detective, while newcomers will find plenty to love in this clever, engaging mystery set amidst the ivory towers of academia.