I, along with many others in the industry, was saddened by the news that well-respected actor - Peter Falk - passed to spirit over the weekend.
Mr. Falk was best-known for his delightful characterization of "Detective Columbo" which he fleshed out with distinctive style on the long-running highly-rated drama series.
However, Falk was also blessed with a remarkable multi-faceted career which spanned several decades.
In one of his early television appearances (a just-blossoming medium) Falk drew rave notices (and snapped up his 1st Emmy Award) for an off-beat portrayal of a truck driver on the ever-popular "Dick Powell Show".
The compassionate actor, born in New York City in 1927, was quite adept on the boards also.
On the heels of being cast as a bartender in "The Iceman Cometh" - talent scouts took notice - and there was no looking back for the humble thespian.
Shortly thereafter - two plum roles in the medium of film landed him Oscar nominations for Best Supporting Actor - "Murder, Inc." and "A Pocketful of Miracles" respectively.
But, "Columbo" was the character that made the reluctant star a household name around the country.
While the weekly mystery series was in production, I was cast in a cameo role for one episode which featured a plot line that focused on the fascinating realm of the paranormal and a charlatan who used smoke-and-mirrors to commit a murder.
On the set one day, I half-turned, and found myself face-to-face with the rumpled "persona" of Detective Columbo.
I tell 'ya, that was quite a memorable experience, for a fledgling actor to experience.
Mr. Falk possessed a magnetic "aura" which spoke volumes.
Falk fondly relayed his feelings about the Columbo character recently in a heartfelt interview.
"I love him. He's eccentric, oblivious to the impression he makes on people. His obsessiveness is hidden by his graciousness. He has a sly sense of humor, is by nature polite and totally devoid of pretension."
The last two years of his life, Falk suffered from Alzheimer's disease and dementia, which triggered a couple of legal skirmishes in the courts with family members in the inner circle.
In 2009, the court granted a request by his wife to maintain control of his personal care and professional affairs.
According to public records, Mr. Falk was 83 years old when he left this mortal coil.
When God created Falk, he broke the mould.
The talented performer will be missed!
Peace Perfect Peace.
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