Known for its inverted detective story format, this long-running TV series stars Peter Falk as a seemingly disheveled, but highly astute, homicide detective with the LAPD, famous for his rumpled raincoat, cigar, and the catchphrase, "Just one more thing...". What is the name of this acclaimed crime drama?

The acclaimed crime drama described is Columbo, a long-running television series that captivated audiences with its unique approach to the detective genre. The show is celebrated for popularizing the "inverted detective story" format, sometimes referred to as a "howcatchem." Unlike traditional mysteries where viewers wonder "whodunit," Columbo episodes begin by showing the audience the perpetrator committing the crime. The suspense then shifts to how the seemingly disheveled Lieutenant Columbo, portrayed masterfully by Peter Falk, will ultimately piece together the clues and expose the killer.

Peter Falk's portrayal of the Los Angeles Police Department homicide detective was central to the show's enduring appeal. Columbo's iconic traits included his rumpled beige raincoat, ever-present cigar, and unassuming demeanor, which often led overconfident suspects to underestimate his sharp intellect. His signature catchphrase, "Just one more thing...", was not initially planned but rather a spontaneous addition by the writers to extend a scene. Falk himself contributed significantly to the character, often ad-libbing quirky behaviors that added to Columbo's charm and kept his fellow actors genuinely off-balance. Interestingly, the famous raincoat was actually one of Falk's own garments.

The series, created by Richard Levinson and William Link, first aired pilot episodes in the late 1960s before its regular run on NBC from 1971 to 1978, and later on ABC from 1989 to 2003, spanning a remarkable 35 years. Columbo's innovative format and Falk's brilliant performance earned the show critical acclaim and numerous awards, solidifying its place as a groundbreaking and beloved entry in television history.