Never saw that one, but I know the role was played by a pre-Pillsbury Shatner. He could be good, and I'll always admire Captain Kirk, but his "Ward Fowler" gave me the creeps. Truth is, every episode after the fifth season has a similarly discouraging effect on me. I don't know why exactly, but I can certainly think of a few reasons.
I agree...Personally, I think Feilding Chase is among the best of the Columbo ABC version murderers, and Butterflies in Shades of Grey one of the best of the ABC Columbo's. It's definitely a good role for Shatner to play, Selfish, Pompous, Arrogant, and not to mention Possessive, as he didn't want his adopted daughter to leave for a new career in New York.