Michael Cole, an actor best known for his role as Pete Cochran on The Mod Squad, died at 84. According to a press release, Cole died peacefully "surrounded by his loved ones," on Tuesday, December 10. The press release did not specify Cole's cause of death or any details surrounding it.
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"Cole's talent, combined with his magnetic presence, made him a defining figure of the era," reads a press release, issued by Cole's rep, according to PEOPLE. "The Mod Squad not only made him a household name but also broke barriers by addressing themes of racial and social justice." The release stated that Cole's performance helped to bring authenticity and heart to The Mod Squad.
It went on to describe Cole as a witty, charming, and compassionate man who "brought joy to every room he entered." The release said that Cole's family and friends will remember him for "his warm and generous spirit. "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," the release reads.
"While his loss is deeply felt, his contributions to the arts and his enduring kindness ensure his memory will live on." Cole is survived by his third wife Shelley Funes and his three children, Candi, Jeff, and Jennifer. Cole and Shelley married in 1996, spending 28 years together.
Remembering Michael Cole
Michael Cole was born in Madison, Wisconsin on July 3, 1940. While he started acting in the late '60s he rose to prominence by playing Pete Cochran in The Mod Squad. Cochran is a rebel "whose wealthy parents kicked him out of their posh Beverly Hills home". He played the role from 1968 to 1973 when the show ended, with it receiving several award nominations.
Following The Mod Squad, Cole went on to play Ted in Wonder Woman, and Mike Kelly in The Love Boat. Moreover, he turned to his role as Pete Cochran in the TV movie, The Return of Mod Squad. Later, he played an adult Henry Howers in the miniseries adaptation of Stephen King's It, and Harlan Barrett in General Hospital.
