Michael Cole, The Mod Squad Actor, Dies at 84: 'A Defining Figure of the Era'

Michael Cole, best known for his role in The Mod Squaddied. He was 84 years old.

On December 10, the late actor – who made his mark as Pete Cochran in the 1960s police drama – died peacefully “surrounded by his loved ones after living a full and vibrant life,” his rep confirmed in a press release.

“Cole’s talent, combined with his magnetic presence, made him a pivotal figure of the era,” the statement said. “The Mod Squad not only made him a household name, but also broke barriers by tackling issues of racial and social justice, and Cole’s performance helped bring authenticity and heart to the series.

“Beyond his career, Michael Cole will be remembered for his warm and generous spirit,” the statement read. “Known among friends and family for his wit, charm and boundless compassion, he brought joy to every room he entered. A storyteller at heart, he knew how to make those around him feel special, often regaling them with anecdotes from his Hollywood days or sharing wisdom from his extraordinary journey.”

“While his loss is deeply felt, his contribution to the arts and his enduring kindness ensure that his memory will live on.”

Michael Cole in ‘Mod Squad’.

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Born in Madison, Wisconsin, Cole rose to fame with his breakthrough role as Cochran in the late 1960s. The Mod Squad followed three “hippie” undercover cops with “checkered pasts to infiltrate the counterculture and catch adult criminals preying on the unsuspecting youth of Southern California,” according to the show’s official log.

The “youth squad” consisted of Peter, “whose wealthy parents kicked him out of their posh Beverly Hills home; Linc, a ghetto survivor; and Julie, an ex-whore arrested for vagrancy.”

In addition to becoming a household name, Cole’s portrayal often explored racial and social justice as the show tackled contemporary social issues. The series ran for five seasons from 1968 to 1973 and also starred Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III.

Michael Cole.

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After The Mod Squad aired its final episode, Cole appeared in it Murder, she wrote, Fantasy island, Wonder Woman and The boat of love. In 1990, he took on the role of the adult Henry Bowers in the adaptation of the Stephen King miniseries It. He also appeared as Harlan Barrett in General Hospital.

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In 2009, Cole also published a memoir, I played a white guyin which he opened up about his decades-long career and shared a detailed account of his experiences in Hollywood.

Cole leaves behind his wife Shelley, children and a “wide circle of friends, family and fans,” according to a press release.

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