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HomeLocalIconic 'Mod Squad' Actor Michael Cole Passes Away at 84

Iconic ‘Mod Squad’ Actor Michael Cole Passes Away at 84

 

 

Michael Cole, last living cast member of ‘The Mod Squad,’ passes away at 84


Michael Cole, renowned for portraying Pete Cochran in the 1960s show “The Mod Squad,” has died at 84.

 

Cole “passed away peacefully” on Tuesday morning, as confirmed by his representative Rachel Harris to YSL News. He was “surrounded by loved ones after a full and vibrant life.” Details regarding his cause of death were not revealed.

“In addition to his work, Michael Cole will be remembered for his kind and generous nature,” read a statement from Harris. “His friends and family knew him for his humor, charm, and abundant compassion, which filled every room with joy.”

“As a natural storyteller, he had a unique talent for making those around him feel special, often sharing engaging tales from his Hollywood experience or offering wisdom from his extraordinary life.”

 

Cole gained fame as an actor in the late 1960s with his role on the ABC action series about three young undercover cops. His co-stars, Clarence Williams III and Peggy Lipton, played Linc Hayes and Julie Barnes, respectively.

 

Cole was the last surviving member of the “The Mod Squad” team. Lipton passed away in May 2019 at the age of 72, while Williams died in June 2021 at 81.

 

This innovative series, airing from 1968 to 1973, was noted for addressing pressing social issues like racial and social justice. Cole’s portrayal of Cochran, a troubled youth who discovered redemption through his squad work, resonated with audiences.

The show received three consecutive Golden Globe nominations for Best TV Drama from 1970 to 1972 during its five-year run. In 1979, Cole reunited with Williams and Lipton to reprise their roles in the television film “The Return of Mod Squad.”

 

Michael Cole featured in ‘CHIPs’ and ‘The Love Boat,’ and portrayed Harlan Barrett on ‘General Hospital’

 

After his time on “The Mod Squad,” Cole continued to make appearances across multiple popular television shows, including “Wonder Woman,” “The Love Boat,” “CHIPs,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “7th Heaven.”

In the early ’90s, he secured a recurring role in the medical drama “General Hospital,” where he played Harlan Barrett for over 60 episodes.

Cole released a memoir titled “I Played the White Guy” in 2018. His last on-screen appearance was in the short film “Father’s Day,” which was released in 2010.

 

“Though his passing is deeply felt, his impact on the arts and his lasting kindness will ensure his legacy endures,” concluded Harris’s statement.

Cole is survived by his wife, Shelley, and his children.