Falk's daughter, wife battle in court

LOS ANGELES, May 29 (UPI) -- Peter Falk's daughter and his wife of 30 years are fighting for conservatorship of the Hollywood icon, who suffers from dementia, court records show.

Falk, 81, is best known for his roles in TV's "Columbo," as well as for his work in films like "Murder Inc.," "Pocketful of Miracles," "Robin and the 7 Hoods," "The Great Race" and "The Princess Bride."

The Los Angeles Times said his daughter, Catherine Falk, is fighting her stepmother, Shera, in court for legal control of the actor.

Shera contends Catherine was estranged from Peter for years and questioned whether her recent interest in him is financially motivated, the Times said.

Catherine was adopted at birth by Peter and his ex-wife, Alyce, with whom Catherine lived after her parents divorced.

Catherine said she maintained a good relationship with her dad, but insists Shera is keeping her from visiting him, the newspaper reported.

Catherine also said she hasn't seen or spoken to her father alone since he had hip replacement surgery last June.

The court hearing on the matter is slated to resume Monday, the Times said.