Peter Falk, best known for his work as the seemingly dim (but actually whip smart) Lt. Columbo in the successful TV series Columbo, died Thursday at his Beverly Hills, Ca. home.  The 83-year-old, who received four Emmy awards for his work on the program, also built up a first rate film career, receiving Oscar nominations for Murder, Inc. and Pocketful of Miracles.

Falk’s friendship with innovative filmmaker John Cassavetes led to roles in the seminal features A Woman Under The Influence and Husbands, and their natural chemistry is also evident as co-stars in Elaine May’s Philadelphia set movie Mikey and Nicky. Other films for the actor include the mystery-comedy Murder By Death, The Princess Bride, The Brink’s Job, The In-Laws, Wings of Desire, Roommates, and Made.

The actor, who had been suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia in recent years, is survived by his wife of 34 years, Shera, and two daughters from a previous marriage.

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