Peter Michael Falk (September 16, 1927 – June 23, 2011) was an American actor, best known for his role as Lt. Columbo in the television series
Columbo. He appeared in numerous films such as
The Princess Bride,
The Great Race,
It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World,
A Woman Under the Influence, and
Murder by Death, as well as many television guest roles. He was nominated for an
Academy Award twice (for 1960's
Murder, Inc. and 1961's
Pocketful of Miracles), and he won the
Emmy Award on five occasions (four for
Columbo) and the
Golden Globe Award once. Director
William Friedkin said of Falk's role in his film
The Brink's Job (1978): "Peter has a great range from comedy to drama. He could break your heart or he could make you laugh."