The late actor took on the role of Peter Cochran in the late 1960s police drama
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Michael Cole, best known for his role in The Mod Squad, has died. He was 84.
On Dec. 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 defining figure of the era,” the release stated. “The Mod Squad not only made him a household name but also broke barriers by addressing themes of racial and social justice, with Cole’s performance helping to bring authenticity and heart to the series.
“Beyond his career, Michael Cole will be remembered for his warm and generous spirit,” the statement continued. “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 had a way of making those around him feel special, often regaling them with anecdotes from his Hollywood days or sharing wisdom from his remarkable journey.”
“While his loss is deeply felt, his contributions to the arts and his enduring kindness ensure his memory will live on.”
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Born in Madison, Wisconsin, Cole rose to prominence with his breakout role as Cochran in the late 1960s. The Mod Squad followed three “hippie” undercover cops with “checkered pasts to infiltrate the counterculture and nail the adult criminals preying on clueless young Southern Californians,” according to the series’ official logline.
The “youth squad” consisted of Peter, “whose wealthy parents kicked him out of their posh Beverly Hills home; Linc, a survivor of the ghetto; and Julie, a former hooker arrested for vagrancy.”
In addition to becoming a household name, Cole’s portrayal often explored racial and social justice as the series tackled contemporary social issues. The show aired for five seasons from 1968 to 1973 and also starred Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III.
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After The Mod Squad aired its final episode, Cole went on to appear in Murder, She Wrote, Fantasy Island, Wonder Woman and The Love Boat. In 1990, he took on the role of adult Henry Bowers in the mini series adaptation of Stephen King’s It. He also appeared as Harlan Barrett in General Hospital.
In 2009, Cole also released a memoir, I Played the White Guy, in which he opened up about his decades-long career and shared a detailed account about his experiences in Hollywood.
Cole is survived by his wife Shelley, his children and his “wide circle of friends, family, and admirers,” according to the press release.