Columbo (1971)

Kernel Score: 89% · 801 ratings

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

First aired: 1971-09-15

Seasons: 10 · 67 episodes

Where to watch Columbo

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

Columbo is a friendly, verbose, disheveled-looking police detective who is consistently underestimated by his suspects. Despite his unprepossessing appearance and apparent absentmindedness, he shrewdly solves all of his cases and secures all evidence needed for indictment. His formidable eye for detail and meticulously dedicated approach often become clear to the killer only late in the storyline.

Columbo parents' guide: ages 8+

Parents need to know that Columbo is a classic mystery procedural with murder plots resolved through clever detective work rather than graphic violence.

  • Violence & scariness: A little — Murders occur as mystery premises but are typically shown with minimal graphic detail.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official TV-PG rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Cast

Columbo FAQ

Is Columbo good?

Columbo has an 89% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 801 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Columbo?

In the US you can stream Columbo on Prime Video and Peacock, watch it free with ads on Fandango at Home and Tubi and buy it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and Fandango At Home.

Is Columbo OK for kids?

Columbo is rated TV-PG. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 8+. Parents need to know that Columbo is a classic mystery procedural with murder plots resolved through clever detective work rather than graphic violence.

What shows are like Columbo?

If you liked Columbo, try The Mentalist, Homicide: Life on the Street, Agatha Christie's Poirot and Cold Case.