One thing you have to admit; BARNABY JONES was an equal opportunity employer when it came to killers. Indeed. I think the series had far more female killers than other cop shows (perhaps with the exception of HAWAII FIVE O), and featured some fine actresses in challenging roles. Case in point.
This episode owes much to Laurie Prange, best known for multiple appearances on the INCREDIBLE HULK. She plays a young woman called Tracy, tied to the drowning death of a journalist. And is there a scandalous story in the mix? Also being married to someone else may have something to do with it.
The best part is watching the killer who (always) believes they committed the perfect crime. That's fun.
I agree with the last reviewer, there's no question she has psychological problems, though at first you may think it's all an act. That would have really spiced things up if the story was written that way. Whatever the case, Prange is worth watching, thanks to director Leo Penn. You couldn't have a better director on board, and perhaps the reason he was hired for this episode. It's also the type of story where Barnaby would need assistance from JR.
The supporting cast is great; Quinn Martin regulars Robert Mandan plays Godfrey and Neva Patterson (a top character actress) portrays Lillian. Co-star John Reilly (who passed in 2021) plays Steve, known in later years for GENERAL HOSPITAL.
Marc Brendel wrote this story, and it makes sense, as he was associated with such dark tv shows as SUSPENSE and ALFRED HITCHCOCK, many others. Dedicated to all us thrill seekers. SEASON 6 EPISODE 12 remastered color/CBS.