When we talk about Peter Falk, the conversation often centers on his brilliant portrayal of Columbo, the clever and disheveled detective with a knack for solving the unsolvable. However, very few people pause to ask about the woman who stood beside him during the early years of his rise to stardom—Alisande Ullman. She was not a public figure, but her impact was deeply personal to one of Hollywood’s most enigmatic actors.

Alisande Ullman may not have sought the limelight, but her story adds an important layer to understanding Peter Falk’s life and career. This article dives deep into her personal history, her marriage, her role in Falk’s life, and her life after their high-profile divorce.

Quick Bio

Attribute	Details
Full Name	Alisande Ullman
Known For	First wife of actor Peter Falk
Relationship	Married to Peter Falk (1960–1976)
Children	2 adopted daughters (with Peter Falk)
Occupation	Not publicly known
Nationality	American
Public Appearances	Rare; mostly seen during Falk’s early fame
Status After Divorce	Retreated from public life
Current Whereabouts	Largely unknown; lives a private life
Connection to Hollywood	Through ex-husband Peter Falk

Who Is Alisande Ullman? A Private Life Linked to Public Fame

Alisande Ullman is best known as the first wife of actor Peter Falk, whom she married in 1960. At the time, Falk was on the cusp of becoming a significant figure in television and film. Ullman, however, did not share her husband’s appetite for fame. Instead, she focused on supporting his career quietly and discreetly, often staying out of the spotlight.

Despite her marriage to a famous actor, Alisande always chose privacy over publicity. She is rarely seen in public records, interviews, or tabloids. This deliberate choice to remain behind the scenes only adds to the mystique surrounding her name.

Early Life and Background: A Mystery Yet to Be Solved

Very little is known about Alisande Ullman’s early life—a rare feat in the age of information. She did not come from the entertainment world, nor did she pursue a career in Hollywood. Unlike many spouses of celebrities who often transition into adjacent industries, Ullman maintained her distance from the Hollywood machine.

There is no public record of her education, early career, or family life before meeting Peter Falk. This has made her one of the more enigmatic figures associated with a major celebrity. Her ability to preserve her anonymity in a world obsessed with celebrity is nothing short of remarkable.

The Love Story: How Alisande Ullman Met Peter Falk

The exact details of how Alisande Ullman and Peter Falk met remain unclear, but they married in 1960—a critical time for Falk, who was beginning to gain recognition as a talented character actor. Their marriage coincided with Falk’s increasing presence in Hollywood, including his breakout roles in Murder, Inc. and Pocketful of Miracles, both of which earned him Academy Award nominations.

Ullman’s support during this transformative period in Falk’s career is believed to have been unwavering. She was with him before the world recognized his talents, and she stayed with him through the highs and lows of building a Hollywood legacy.

A Family Built on Love: Adoption and Parenthood

One of the most notable aspects of Alisande Ullman and Peter Falk’s marriage was their decision to adopt two daughters—Catherine and Jackie. Falk often spoke warmly about fatherhood, and while he remained the public face of the family, Ullman was instrumental in creating a stable home environment for their children.

Unfortunately, years later, a bitter custody battle would erupt between Falk and his adopted daughter Catherine. The family dynamic became strained after his divorce from Ullman, but it is generally acknowledged that during their marriage, Ullman played a nurturing and stabilizing role.

The Divorce: When Love Couldn’t Hold On

After 16 years of marriage, Alisande Ullman and Peter Falk officially divorced in 1976. The reason for their separation was never publicly detailed, maintaining the pattern of privacy that surrounded Ullman’s life. However, insiders speculated that Falk’s rising fame and the pressures of Hollywood life may have taken a toll on their relationship.

Following the divorce, Peter Falk eventually married actress Shera Danese, whom he remained with until his death in 2011. Ullman, on the other hand, completely withdrew from the public eye, never remarrying or engaging in public appearances.

Life After Peter Falk: A Graceful Exit from the Spotlight

Unlike many celebrity ex-wives who either tell-all or continue to court the public’s attention, Alisande Ullman chose silence. After her divorce, she was almost entirely absent from media coverage. She did not publish memoirs, give interviews, or make headlines.

In a world that often rewards scandal and self-exposure, Ullman’s dignified retreat is rare. It suggests a woman who valued her autonomy and refused to let public curiosity define her existence.

Cultural Impact: Why Alisande Ullman Still Matters

While Alisande Ullman did not have a direct impact on film or television, her role in Peter Falk’s life is culturally significant. She was with him during his artistic breakthrough, offering emotional stability and partnership. For fans of Falk, understanding his personal life adds depth to the man behind Columbo.

Moreover, Ullman’s life serves as a quiet counter-narrative to the fame-driven culture of Hollywood. Her story reminds us that not every figure linked to celebrity status is seeking recognition. Some, like Ullman, remain content with their roles behind the scenes.

Public Records and Current Status: Where Is Alisande Ullman Now?

There are no verified records of Alisande Ullman’s current location or lifestyle. She has kept such a low profile that even seasoned biographers struggle to trace her post-divorce life. She appears to have never remarried or re-entered the public sphere.

Some reports suggest she continued to live in California for a while, possibly maintaining ties with her daughters. However, these remain speculative at best. Her silence, however, speaks volumes about her intent to preserve her privacy.

The Legacy of a Quiet Life

Alisande Ullman may never be a household name, but her story is a powerful testament to the roles people play behind the curtain of fame. While Peter Falk dazzled audiences with his unique charisma and acting prowess, it was Ullman who supported him during his formative years.

In many ways, she represents the unsung figures of Hollywood—those who choose dignity over drama, and depth over exposure. Her life serves as a subtle yet profound reminder that behind every star, there is often someone whose story deserves to be told, even if only in whispers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is Alisande Ullman?

• Alisande Ullman is the first wife of actor Peter Falk. They were married from 1960 to 1976 and had two adopted daughters. She is known for her extremely private life and absence from the public spotlight.

2. Did Alisande Ullman work in the entertainment industry?

• No public records indicate that she worked in the entertainment industry. She remained outside of the Hollywood limelight and focused on her family life.

3. Did Alisande Ullman remarry after her divorce from Peter Falk?

• There are no known records of Alisande Ullman remarrying. She has lived a life away from public attention since her divorce in 1976.

4. How many children did Alisande Ullman have with Peter Falk?

• Alisande and Peter Falk adopted two daughters together—Catherine and Jackie.

5. Where is Alisande Ullman now?

• Her current whereabouts are unknown. She chose to live a private life after her divorce and has not been seen in public for many years.