Abigail Mitchell

Abigail Mitchell appeared in the Season 4 Columbo episode "Try and Catch Me," which originally aired on November 21, 1977. In the episode, Abigail Mitchell is a mystery writer who murders her nephew and his fiancée when she discovers that they plan to sell the family home where she lives. Lieutenant Columbo, played by Peter Falk, investigates the murders and eventually unravels Abigail's scheme. Ruth Gordon was a well-known actress, writer, and playwright, who appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout her career. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the 1968 film "Rosemary's Baby. Ruth Gordon's portrayal of Abigail Mitchell in "Columbo: Try and Catch Me" is considered one of the most memorable performances in the series. Gordon's character is a sharp-tongued, eccentric mystery writer who appears to be a harmless, elderly woman but is actually a calculating murderer. She is manipulative and uses her intelligence and charm to deceive those around her, including Lt. Columbo, who is initially taken in by her wily ways.

As the episode progresses, Lt. Columbo begins to unravel Abigail's carefully constructed alibi and motives, and eventually proves that she committed the murders. The scene where Columbo confronts Abigail in her study is a classic moment in the series, and the interplay between Peter Falk and Ruth Gordon is a masterclass in acting. Ruth Gordon had a long and successful career in Hollywood. In addition to her Academy Award-winning role in "Rosemary's Baby," she also appeared in such classic films as "Harold and Maude," "Every Which Way but Loose," and "My Bodyguard." She was also a prolific writer, penning numerous plays, screenplays, and books. Ruth Gordon passed away in 1985 at the age of 88.