Which actor played the role of which bumbling inspector in the 1964 film, The Pink Panther?

The bumbling French detective in the 1964 film *The Pink Panther* was none other than Inspector Jacques Clouseau, brought to life by the incomparable Peter Sellers. Sellers' portrayal of Clouseau, a character prone to spectacular idiocy and accidental chaos, became the breakout element of the film, even though he was originally intended as a supporting character to David Niven's jewel thief. The film's director, Blake Edwards, quickly recognized the comedic genius Sellers brought to the role, leading Clouseau to become the central figure of the hugely successful *Pink Panther* franchise.

Sellers' Inspector Clouseau is renowned for his immense ego, exaggerated French accent, and a remarkable knack for turning any investigation into a series of calamitous events. Despite his often-misguided deductions and physical klutziness, Clouseau possesses an unwavering determination, often solving crimes by sheer accident rather than skill. This blend of pomposity and incompetence, coupled with Sellers' brilliant comedic timing and physical humor, made Clouseau an enduring icon of slapstick comedy. His memorable performance established a comedic benchmark that subsequent actors attempting the role have found hard to match.