BREAKING NEWS: Peter Falk, 'Columbo' Star and Voice of 'The Princess Bride,' Dies at 83

Hollywood lost a legend today as Peter Falk, prolific actor and star of "Columbo," passed away at 83.

Falk played the title role in the detective TV show "Columbo" for over thirty years, starring in "Columbo" specials as recently as 2003. The wisecracking detective was the original "House," a character that was clever and cool while solving mysteries in the early days of TV procedurals.

Falk had a storied movie career as well, playing roles in such films as "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" and Rat Pack musical movie "Robin and the 7 Hoods." Falk was nominated to two Oscars for his supporting roles in "Pocketful of Miracles" and "Murder, Inc." and racked up a massive 12 Emmy nominations, five of them leading to wins (four for "Columbo," and one for "The Dick Powell Theatre." Later in life, he had a stellar role in director Wim Wenders' critically acclaimed classic "Wings of Desire." He also earned 10 Golden Globe nominations and one win, all for "Columbo."

But if you're a child of the 1980's (or just a fan of great movies), you may know Falk best as the narrator (a.k.a. Grandpa) in "The Princess Bride." Falk's performance in the comedy is truly charming, warm and honest...and if you're anything like me, you can still hear his voice recounting the tale of Wesley, Buttercup, and true love. And the shrieking eels, of course.

While the cause of death is not yet known, Falk was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2007, and had been in declining health since. For more information on the disease and to donate toward research for a cure, visit curealzfund.org.

For a sample of Falk's sublime acting, check out this clip from the 1987 classic "The Princess Bride":