Vito Scotti characters in the Columbo series always offered some of the funniest interactions with Columbo. Playing the undertaker in "Swan Song" is classic. Watching him as the down and out sharing lunch with Columbo has some of the funniest dialogue. What struck me was his command of the English language was superb. Makes me wonder how a man of such intelligence had hit rock bottom.

Good to hear from you Mrs. Peck. Its been awhile.

I agree. Vito added such a fantastic flair to every episode he was in. Even going so far as to own his own bar in Murder a Self-Portrait.

As you mentioned, the Undertaker scene is classic in Swan Song. Then as he is cast to play the down and out alcoholic bum in Negative Reaction. And turns in a stellar performance not just at the Mission when he sobers up but also at the junk yard where he meets Columbo for the 1st time. Great talent.

I agree with both of you. But let us not forget in a "Candidate for Crime," the scene in the tailor shop. That was very amusing. Also in "Any Old Port in the Storm," the scene in the restaurant with his fellow worker tasting the wine. I look forward to that scene every time I watch that episode.