365 Days of Columbo: April 13th

Happy Birthday Gary Kroeger

Gary Kroeger is an American actor, businessman, and former political candidate, born on April 13, 1957, in Cedar Falls, Iowa. He is best known for his work as a cast member on “Saturday Night Live” from 1982 to 1985. Kroeger’s versatility as an actor was showcased in various roles, including his memorable appearance in the “Columbo” episode Death Hits the Jackpot in 1991, where he played the victim, Freddy Brower.

Poor naive Freddy wanted to hide his lottery win from his soon-to-be ex-wife and enlisted his favorite uncle to help him launder the money. Little did he know that Uncle Leon was enjoying some "naughty time" with his not-quite-former spouse.

Kroeger attended Northwestern University, where he honed his acting skills. After his stint on “Saturday Night Live”, he continued to pursue acting, taking on roles in movies and television. 

Aside from acting, Kroeger has also made a name for himself in the business world and as a columnist. His foray into politics saw him run for the Democratic Congressional primary in 2016 and then for an Iowa state house seat in the same year. He did not win the election.

Happy Birthday Judson Morgan

Character actor Judson Morgan was born on April 13, 1914. He’s not one of the first names most fans think of, but he did appear in a pair of Columbos. First he was the judge in Ransom for a Dead Man.

And a couple of seasons later he had a tiny role in A Friend in Deed as Charles, the maitre'd in the club who points Hugh towards where Halperin is sitting.

Morgan had a few roles over the years, including 4 episodes of Barney Miller, but his filmography is modest. He passed away in 2006 at the age of 91.