A Hollywood Love That Lasted — Despite a Rocky Start

Peter Falk, best known as the trench coat-wearing detective Columbo, and Shera Danese, an actress and former Miss Pennsylvania, had a relationship that stood the test of time — but it wasn’t always smooth sailing.

They met in 1976 on the set of a movie, and despite a 21-year age gap, Falk was immediately taken with her. The two married in 1977, but their relationship went through multiple separations over the years. Still, they always found their way back to each other.

“Shera was the love of Peter’s life,” said close friends. “Even when they disagreed, he couldn’t stay away from her.”

Interestingly, Shera appeared in more episodes of Columbo than any other actress — starring in six different episodes over the years, each time playing a different character. Fans loved seeing the off-screen couple share scenes in the series, often marked by playful tension and clever dialogue.

Despite the challenges, they remained married until Falk’s passing in 2011, proving that even in Hollywood, some love stories are real — and enduring.