Part 6/9:
The High Stakes of Celebrity and Power
However, the very tactics that initially seemed to strengthen Columbo’s position began to fracture the traditional Mafia structure. He amassed significant power, but this also sowed jealousy and fear among rival factions within the Mafia. His reckless pursuit of fame began to threaten the Mafia’s core principles, as traditionalists worried that his public persona would bring undue scrutiny and the risk of law enforcement inquiries.
By 1971, tensions escalated. Convincing public displays from Columbo at rallies not only summoned media attention but also irked other Mafia families, resulting in dwindling participation in his events. As the shadow of law enforcement loomed large, Columbo’s enemies were already plotting his downfall.