Ep 3. Sex and the Married Detective

Columbo is a classic detective show from the 1970s that follows the brilliant and unassuming Lieutenant Columbo, played by Peter Falk, as he solves complex cases that often involve wealthy and powerful individuals. In season 8, episode 3 titled "Sex and the Married Detective," Columbo investigates the murder of a private investigator who was looking into the infidelity of a wealthy businessman's wife.

The episode begins with Columbo questioning a woman named Dolores about her involvement with the recently deceased private investigator, Eddie Kane. Dolores insists that she was just a friend and that Eddie was investigating the businessman's wife, not her. However, Columbo soon discovers that Dolores is actually a call girl who was hired by the businessman's wife to keep Eddie distracted so that he wouldn't discover her affair.

As Columbo digs deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of lies and deception within the wealthy couple's marriage. The businessman, named Harold Van Wick, is obsessed with maintaining his social status and protecting his reputation. His wife, Loretta, is unhappy in the marriage and has been having an affair with a tennis instructor named Tom.

Columbo quickly realizes that Harold was the mastermind behind Eddie's murder. He used Dolores to distract Eddie while he snuck up on him and killed him with a tire iron. When Columbo confronts Harold with the evidence, he initially denies any involvement but eventually confesses, claiming that he did it to protect his reputation and keep his marriage intact.

The episode concludes with Columbo reflecting on the case and the sad state of marriage in the upper echelons of society. He notes that the wealthy and powerful often use their wealth and power to control those around them, leading to deceit and unhappiness in their personal lives.

Overall, "Sex and the Married Detective" is a compelling and engaging episode of Columbo that explores the themes of infidelity and marital dysfunction. Peter Falk's performance as Columbo is as charming and clever as ever, and the episode's intricate plot keeps viewers guessing until the very end.