Did William Shatner, the iconic Captain Kirk, truly master the art of playing a cold-blooded killer, or was his foray into the world of Columbo a misstep? Shatner's two appearances on the classic detective series reveal a fascinating duality: a hammy, often over-the-top performance style that somehow managed to deliver chilling portrayals of calculated murder.
The allure of "Columbo" lies not only in the intricate plots but also in the compelling guest stars who attempted to outsmart the seemingly bumbling lieutenant. William Shatner, a cultural icon in his own right, entered this arena twice, bringing his unique brand of theatricality to the role of the antagonist. His performances sparked debate among fans, raising questions about his suitability for the roles, and ultimately, his success in them.
| Full Name: | William Alan Shatner |
| Date of Birth: | March 22, 1931 |
| Place of Birth: | Montreal, Quebec, Canada |
| Nationality: | Canadian-American |
| Education: | Westmount High School, McGill University (B.A. in Economics) |
| Occupation: | Actor, Author, Producer, Director, Singer |
| Known For: | Captain James T. Kirk in Star Trek: The Original Series |
| Notable Roles: | Star Trek (1966-1969), T.J. Hooker (1982-1986), Numerous stage and film appearances |
| Columbo Appearances: | Fade in to Murder (1976), Butterfly in Shades of Grey (1994) |
| Other Achievements: | Multiple Emmy and Golden Globe Awards, Numerous best-selling books |
| Website: | Official Website |
Shatner's initial foray into the world of "Columbo" occurred in the sixth season opener, titled "Fade in to Murder," which aired in 1976. This episode introduced viewers to Ward Fowler, a television actor who, ironically, played a fictional detective named Lucerne on a popular TV show. In a twist of fate, Fowler finds himself embroiled in a real-life murder, killing his blackmailing producer. Shatner's portrayal of Fowler was memorable, setting the stage for his second appearance in the series.
The plot of "Fade in to Murder" revolves around a classic setup: a seemingly perfect crime meticulously planned and executed. Fowler, the egotistical star, meticulously stages the murder to look like a robbery gone wrong. He utilizes his knowledge of the crime-solving world (both real and fictional) to create an alibi that initially seems airtight. However, Lieutenant Columbo, with his unassuming demeanor and sharp mind, slowly unravels Fowler's carefully constructed faade.
The episode cleverly plays with the audience's expectations. Fowler, the actor, is essentially playing two roles: Ward Fowler the murderer, and Lucerne, the detective. Shatner leans into this duality, providing a performance that's both theatrical and chilling. Columbo, assisted by Fowler himself, finds himself in the unusual position of investigating someone who seems to understand the process intimately. This dynamic adds a layer of meta-commentary to the episode, creating a compelling narrative for the viewer.
A key element of the episode's success is the way Columbo dismantles Fowler's alibi. The lieutenant meticulously examines every detail, uncovering inconsistencies that reveal the cracks in Fowler's plan. From the timing of events to the placement of evidence, Columbos investigation highlights the flaws in Fowlers perfect crime.
The episode also features a minor, but nonetheless notable, appearance by another "Star Trek" alumnus, Walter Koenig, who played the reporting officer at the murder scene. This small detail adds a layer of nostalgic appeal for fans, creating a sense of shared history between the two actors who starred in the iconic science fiction show.
Fast forward to 1994, and Shatner returned to "Columbo" in the episode "Butterfly in Shades of Grey." In this installment, he portrayed a radio talk show host who commits murder. While the specifics of this crime differ from his earlier role, the core principle remains the same: a carefully planned deception. Both characters share a calculated approach to eliminate their victims and construct elaborate alibis.
This second appearance presented a different side of Shatner's skills. He fully embodied the affectations of a radio personality, giving a performance that drew in viewers. "Butterfly in Shades of Grey," directed by Dennis Dugan, offered Shatner ample opportunity to "devour the scenery," as many critics put it, and the episode showcased his ability to command attention with every scene.
In both "Fade in to Murder" and "Butterfly in Shades of Grey," the method of killing involved a gunshot wound. This parallel further highlights the consistent themes in Shatner's "Columbo" appearances. The actor was one of a select few to have the distinction of playing a killer in the series multiple times, thus firmly establishing himself as a memorable antagonist in the show's history.
The impact of Shatner's performances on "Columbo" remains a subject of debate. While some critics and fans may have found his style to be "hammy," the enduring appeal of the series suggests that his unique approach had a place within the Columbo universe. Whether its the actors "hammy style of line delivery" or the unique presentation that fits the character of the host, each of his performances added a touch of individuality.
Beyond the specifics of each episode, Shatners appearances in "Columbo" exemplify the series' ability to attract and utilize top-tier guest stars. The show consistently featured compelling villains, creating a dynamic that kept viewers engaged. His ability to portray characters who are both arrogant and yet somehow sympathetic added complexity to his performances.
The success of "Columbo" is a testament to the strength of its formula: a seemingly unassuming detective versus a clever, often arrogant, murderer. Shatner, with his unique acting style, contributed to this dynamic, giving the show a new flavor each time he came on.
In "Fade in to Murder", an actor who plays a detective on screen is exposed as a killer, and in "Butterfly in Shades of Grey," a radio host uses his platform to hide a dark secret. The episodes are not mere crime dramas, but also explorations of the nature of celebrity, deception, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their carefully constructed images.
The plots of the episodes offer a detailed recap of the plot, the clues, the twists, and the outcome of a classic whodunit. The presence of blood on the victim's robe, a rare occurrence for the series, further underscores the intensity of the situation. The episode plays with the themes of self-awareness and the blurring of reality.
Shatner's portrayal of Ward Fowler also hints at his own Canadian roots, a small detail adding layers to the performance. The writers also play with the actor's real-life persona, bringing a subtle meta-commentary to the show.
The episodes are more than simple crime stories; they serve as examples of how "Columbo" has been presented. "Columbo" has always been more than just a detective show; it is a study of human nature, a commentary on the complexities of crime, and the clever ways the killer tries to create an alibi.
The series also reminds audiences of its roots. Before Peter Falk, Bert Freed played the character in an episode of The Chevy Mystery Show, later turned into a play starring Thomas Mitchell. This background illustrates how "Columbo" has stayed relevant and continues to be reimagined. "Columbo" demonstrates a lasting legacy.
In conclusion, William Shatner's appearances on "Columbo" offer more than just a glimpse into the actor's ability to play the villain; they are a study of a fascinating approach to acting, the ability to play against type, and the enduring appeal of the classic detective story. Though the style might be "hammy" to some, the performances are undeniably memorable, contributing to the rich legacy of the series.
