Yahoo Lifestyle Michael Cole, ‘Mod Squad’ Star, Dies at 84
Michael Cole, who played Pete Cochran, one of the three hip young cops on “The Mod Squad,” died Tuesday. He was 84.
Cole’s reps said he died “peacefully this morning, surrounded by loved ones, after living a full and vibrant life.”
Born on July 3, 1940, in Madison, Wisc., Cole guested on shows like “Gunsmoke” before breaking through on “The Mod Squad.” The series aired from 1968 to 1973, co-starring Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III. Cole’s character Pete Cochran had been a troubled youth who found redemption through his work on the squad, and the show often tackled contemporary social issues.
After “The Mod Squad,” Cole continued to work on shows including “Murder, She Wrote,” “Fantasy Island,” “Wonder Woman” and “The Love Boat.” He also played the adult Henry Bowers in Stephen King’s 1990 “It” mini-series and appeared on “General Hospital” as Harlan Barrett.
He appeared in movies like “The Bubble,” “Nickel Mountain,” “Mr. Brooks” and his final film role was in 2008’s”Grave Misconduct.”
Cole also appeared onstage, starring in “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” and other plays.
His 2009 memoir was called “I Played the White Guy,” and offered a candid and heartfelt account of his experiences in Hollywood.
He is survived by his wife Shelley and his children.
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