Columbo star Peter Falk dead at 83

By Alexandra Heilbron on June 24, 2011 | 11 Comments

Peter Falk, who was best known as the unkempt but mentally sharp police detective Columbo in the series of the same name, died last night at age 83. His family released a statement that read: “Falk died peacefully at his Beverly Hills home in the evening of June 23, 2011.” Falk, who lost his right eye to cancer at the age of three, suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease in his later years. During his more than 50-year career, he received two Oscar nominations and won a Golden Globe award and five Emmy awards, four of them for Columbo. He most recently appeared on the big screen in The Thing About My Folks in 2005, playing Paul Reiser‘s father. Falk leaves behind his wife of 34 years, Shera, as well as two daughters, Catherine and  Jackie, from his first marriage.

1. C-Dub • June 24, 2011 @ 3:54 PM

   Talent will be missed.

2. ShadyT • June 24, 2011 @ 3:59 PM

   The orginal In-Laws movie was hilarious with Alan Arkin. He was a great character!

3. shona • June 24, 2011 @ 4:20 PM

   R.I.P.

4. Tracey • June 24, 2011 @ 4:30 PM

   My favourite movie with him is “The Princess Bride” He was the BEST Grandpa EVER!! My sympathies to the family.

5. Jo-Anne • June 24, 2011 @ 4:36 PM

   fabulous actor, loved Columbo….sad but good to hear he went peacefully…

6. anon • June 24, 2011 @ 4:43 PM

   very sad. I loved the Columbo series and the character! My sympathies to the family.

7. jazzygal • June 24, 2011 @ 9:18 PM

   So sad, my favorite detective!!! loved Colombo, doubt I missed a show. Will be missing him.

8. Rita • June 25, 2011 @ 2:32 AM

   My heart goes out to his Family. I didnt watch Columbo much but boy theres no way, to many men could act in that role like Mr Falk could! He had such a sauve voice(loved it). I thought he was in his 70’s still! The world is empty w/out him already! Many ppl are going to miss him!! Including me!!

9. Kags • June 25, 2011 @ 9:26 PM

   Sad, I remember watching Columbo with my mom when I was young.

10. Heather • June 26, 2011 @ 1:42 AM

    I’m still watching Colombo today, loves ya Peter, and in remembrance of the character Colombo I leave a pencil on the counter for you. R.I.P.

11. Connie • June 28, 2011 @ 3:28 PM

    Me too, Heather, I have fond memories of watching Columbo with my mom. I still watch reruns.