Peter Falk, Legendary ‘Columbo’ Actor, Battled Alzheimer’s and Family Struggles Before Passing
Peter Falk will forever be remembered as the scruffy, trench-coat-wearing detective Columbo, the television character who kept audiences on the edge of their seats. Known for his signature cigar and humble demeanor, Columbo often solved cases by noticing “one small detail” that others overlooked.
The show became a prime-time staple in the 1970s and continued sporadically until 2003, redefining the TV detective archetype. Unlike other detectives who were often polished and methodical, Columbo’s unassuming style allowed him to outwit wealthy and influential criminals, earning Falk global recognition.
Emmy Awards and Hollywood Success
Falk’s portrayal of Columbo earned him four Emmy Awards, cementing his place as one of television’s most beloved actors. Beyond TV, he made a lasting mark in Hollywood.
Born in New York, Falk lost his right eye to retinoblastoma at age three and wore a prosthetic eye for most of his life, which contributed to his famous squint. Despite this early challenge, he remained active in sports and pursued an acting career with determination.
Falk’s breakout film role came in Murder, Inc. (1960), where he played gangster Abe Reles, earning his first Academy Award nomination. The following year, he starred in Pocketful of Miracles with Bette Davis, earning another nomination. By the height of his career, Falk became one of the highest-paid TV actors, earning roughly $250,000 per episode of Columbo.
Personal Life and Family Conflicts
Falk married his college sweetheart, Alyce Mayo, in 1960 after dating for 12 years at Syracuse University. The couple adopted two daughters, Catherine and Jackie. Their marriage ended after 16 years, reportedly due to Falk’s infidelities.
Catherine Falk has publicly discussed the strained relationship with her father, especially after his marriage to actress Shera Danese. She described being kept away from Falk’s home and even filed a lawsuit regarding college expenses.
“My father’s second marriage created distance between us,” Catherine told Inside Edition. “We weren’t allowed in his home, and it was difficult to maintain our relationship.”
Health Battles and Final Years
In his later years, Peter Falk faced serious health challenges. He developed Alzheimer’s disease, which worsened following hip surgery in 2008, and struggled with memory loss, including forgetting his iconic role as Columbo. He also lived with complications from childhood retinoblastoma.
Falk passed away at his Beverly Hills home in June 2011 at the age of 83. Pneumonia, compounded by Alzheimer’s disease, was listed as the cause of death.
Legacy of a TV Legend
Despite personal and family difficulties, Peter Falk’s legacy remains immense. Steven Spielberg, reflecting on Falk’s impact, said:
“I learned more about acting from him at that early stage of my career than I had from anyone else.”
His daughters remember his humor, kindness, and insight, though Catherine revealed she never got a final goodbye and only learned of his passing hours later. Legal representatives confirmed that Falk’s final resting arrangements were overseen by him and Shera Danese.
Peter Falk’s unforgettable performance as Columbo, combined with his contributions to Hollywood, ensures he will remain a celebrated figure in television history. His work continues to inspire actors and entertain fans around the world.
