Michael Cole (1940–2024), The Mod Squad actor
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2 min readMichael Cole was an actor best known for playing Pete Cochran in the 1960s and ‘70s crime drama, “The Mod Squad,” and a 64-episode stint on “General Hospital.”
- Died: December 10, 2024 (Who else died on December 10?)
- Details of death: Died in Tarzana, California at the age of 84.
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Michael Cole’s legacy
For a generation of viewers, Michael Cole, along with his co-stars Peggy Lipton (1946–2019), Clarence Williams III (1939–2021), and Tige Andrews (1920–2007), were counterculture icons on television thanks to their work in the crime drama “The Mod Squad.” The show’s diverse cast and socially conscious themes made it a hit among prime-time viewers, shining a spotlight on racism, anti-war sentiments, poverty, drug addiction, and other issues.
Cole had a few scattered appearances prior to landing his “Mod Squad” role, where he played officer Pete Cochran, including an episode of “Gunsmoke,” but it was “The Mod Squad” that made him a star. The show was a consistent top 30 hit, peaking at number 11 in 1970-71.
After “The Mod Squad” finished its run in 1973, Cole continued to regularly appear on television, including brief roles on shows like “Murder, She Wrote,” “Wonder Woman,” “The Love Boat,” “CHiPs,” “ER,” and “Fantasy Island.” He also starred in the 1979 made-for-TV movie, “The Return of the Mod Squad.”
Cole became a familiar face to soap opera fans in 1991, when he had a 64-episode run on “General Hospital,” playing Harlan Barrett. His last major screen appearance was the 2008 movie, “Grave Misconduct.”
Tributes to Michael Cole
Full obituary: The Hollywood Reporter
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