On December 10, 2024, Michael Cole, known for his role as undercover cop Pete Cochran in “The Mod Squad,” passed away in Tarzana, California at the age of 84.
Rachel Harris, his representative, confirmed his peaceful death surrounded by family.
Cole was born on July 3, 1940 in Madison, Wisconsin. His journey to fame was unusual. He dropped out of high school, married his pregnant girlfriend at the age of 16, and moved to Las Vegas. His interest in acting was sparked by an interaction with singer Bobby Darin. Cole then moved to Los Angeles, California and studied under acting coach Estelle Harman while living under freeways. He divorced his first wife before turning 20, after fathering two children.
Aaron Spelling, the producer of “The Mod Squad” (1968-1973), saw Cole as the representation of the rebellious youth culture of the time. The series depicted three young undercover officers who infiltrated high schools and countercultural gatherings to solve crimes.
The show was groundbreaking, tackling contemporary societal issues like racism, abortion, the Vietnam War, and police brutality. Cole’s co-stars were Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III, who passed away in 2019 and 2021 respectively.
“The Mod Squad” was nominated for the best TV drama Golden Globe three years in a row, from 1970 to 1972. In 1979, Cole joined his former co-stars for “The Return of Mod Squad” TV movie.
After the series ended, Cole remained a fixture on television, making appearances in shows such as “Wonder Woman,” “The Love Boat,” “CHiPs,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “7th Heaven.” In the early 1990s, he played Harlan Barrett in “General Hospital,” featuring in over 60 episodes.
Throughout his career, Cole dealt with personal issues. In the early 1990s, he entered the Betty Ford Clinic for treatment of alcohol addiction. With the support of his third wife, Shelley Funes, he ultimately achieved sobriety.
In 2009, Cole wrote his memoir titled “I Played the White Guy,” where he shared honest insights about his experiences in Hollywood. His final acting role was in the 2010 short film “Father’s Day.”