Peter Falk Biography: Wife, Age, Death, Columbo, Net Worth, Height, Movies & TV Shows

Peter Michael Falk, widely recognized as Peter Falk, was a celebrated American film and television actor best known for his iconic role as Lieutenant Columbo in the long-running television series Columbo.

With a career spanning more than five decades, Falk earned acclaim for his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles, earning multiple Emmy Awards and two Academy Award nominations.

Known for his trademark glass eye, rumpled trench coat, and subtle brilliance, Falk remains one of the most recognizable and beloved figures in television history.

Profile

• Full Name: Peter Michael Falk
• Stage Name: Peter Falk
• Born: September 16, 1927
• Date of death: 23, June 2011 (Aged: 83 years old)
• Birthplace: The Bronx, New York City, U.S.
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Actor, and Author
• Height: 1.68m
• Parents: Michael Peter Falk, Madeline Hochhauser
• Siblings: None
• Spouse: Alyce Mayo (m. 1960-1976), and Shera Danese (m. 1977)
• Girlfriends: None
• Children: 2
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $5 million

Early Life and Education

Peter Michael Falk was born on September 16, 1927, in The Bronx, New York City, to Michael Peter Falk, a clothing store owner, and Madeline Hochhauser, an accountant. He was the only child of his parents.

He briefly attended Hamilton College, then completed a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Literature from the New School for Social Research in 1951, followed by a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Syracuse University in 1953. He was of Eastern European Jewish descent, though he was not publicly religious.

Career

Peter Falk began his career in government service, working as an efficiency expert for the Connecticut State Budget Bureau. His interest in acting grew from community theater work, which led him to study with Eva Le Gallienne and at the Actors Studio in New York.

Falk made his professional stage debut in 1956 and transitioned to film in the late 1950s. His breakthrough came with Murder, Inc. (1960), where his role as mob killer Abe Reles earned him an Academy Award nomination. He followed up with a second Oscar nomination for Pocketful of Miracles (1961), directed by Frank Capra.

Falk’s rise to stardom solidified in 1968 when he first appeared as Lieutenant Columbo, a character that would define his career. The role, known for its disheveled appearance and subtle investigative tactics, earned him four Primetime Emmy Awards.

Columbo aired from 1968 through 2003, and became one of the most critically acclaimed detective series in television history. During this period, Falk also maintained a vibrant film career, working in projects like Husbands (1970), A Woman Under the Influence (1974), and The In-Laws (1979), often collaborating with director John Cassavetes.

Peter Falk continued to act in both television and film into the 2000s. His role as the grandfather-narrator in The Princess Bride (1987) introduced him to a new generation of fans. He also starred in Wim Wenders’ Wings of Desire (1987), appearing as himself.

Falk’s later work included voice roles, television guest appearances, and his final film role in American Cowslip (2009). He also published a memoir titled Just One More Thing in 2006, reflecting on his storied career. Falk’s influence on the mystery genre and character acting remains significant.

Social Media

Peter Falk does not have a social media account

Personal Life

Peter Falk married Alyce Mayo in 1960, and the couple adopted two daughters before divorcing in 1976. In 1977, he married actress Shera Danese, who appeared in several Columbo episodes. The couple remained together until his death.

Despite his fame, Falk led a private and modest lifestyle, dedicating time to painting, drawing, and charitable work. In his later years, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, which led to a well-publicized legal conservatorship battle over his care.

Peter Falk passed away on June 23, 2011, at the age of 83 in Beverly Hills, California.

Filmography

• Murder, Inc. (1960)
• Pocketful of Miracles (1961)
• It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963)
• Robin and the 7 Hoods (1964)
• Husbands (1970)
• A Woman Under the Influence (1974)
• The In-Laws (1979)
• The Princess Bride (1987)
• Wings of Desire (1987)
• American Cowslip (2009)

Net Worth

Peter Falk had an estimated net worth of $5 million at the time of his death. His primary sources of income included his extensive television work, particularly his role in Columbo, which earned long-term syndication royalties.

Additional income came from film roles, stage performances, voice acting, and book sales from his memoir.