[s2e1] Г‰tude In Black -

Blythe Danner was visibly pregnant during filming; her daughter, Gwyneth Paltrow, was born just 10 days after the episode aired.

Originally written for a 90-minute slot, the network forced it to be expanded to two hours (with commercials), leading to some "padded" scenes, such as Columbo visiting Benedict's home to discuss taxes. Critical Reception "Columbo" Étude in Black (TV Episode 1972) - IMDb

This episode marks the first appearance of Columbo’s lethargic Basset Hound , whom he eventually names "Dog". [S2E1] Г‰tude in Black

In addition to Cassavetes and Danner, the episode features Hollywood legend Myrna Loy as Benedict's mother-in-law.

In the Season 2 premiere, " Étude in Black " (1972) , the rumpled Lieutenant faces off against Alex Benedict (John Cassavetes), a world-renowned conductor who murders his mistress, concert pianist Jenifer Welles, to protect his career and marriage to a wealthy heiress. Plot Summary Blythe Danner was visibly pregnant during filming; her

While at the crime scene, a carnation falls from Benedict's lapel. He later picks it up in front of Columbo, but the Lieutenant notices it was missing during the earlier televised concert.

It was directed by Nicholas Colasanto , better known to later audiences as "Coach" from Cheers . In addition to Cassavetes and Danner, the episode

Benedict stages Jenifer’s death as a suicide by gas asphyxiation. To create an alibi, he "naps" in his dressing room at the Hollywood Bowl before a concert, but actually slips out to commit the crime.