"Terrible thing," Columbo mutters, looking at the charred steering wheel. "Just terrible. My wife, she loves his books. Always reading them in bed. I can’t see a thing without my glasses, but she says he writes real pretty."
Columbo , the iconic detective series starring Peter Falk as the rumpled Lieutenant Columbo, remains a beloved staple of television history. Originally airing from 1968 to 2003 (across NBC and ABC), the show’s unique "howdunit" format continues to attract new viewers and satisfy nostalgic fans. As of 2026, streaming access varies significantly by region and platform due to rotating licensing agreements. This report outlines the primary legal streaming options, purchase opportunities, and key considerations for viewers. columbo series streaming