Michael Colethe actor best known for his role as Pete Cochran in the classic 1960s TV series The Mod Squad, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 84. According to his representatives, Cole died peacefully in the presence of his loved ones after leading a fulfilling and vibrant life.
Born on July 3, 1940, in Madison, Wisconsin, Cole began his career guest-starring in popular shows like Gunsmoke. His big break came in 1968 when he joined the cast of The Mod Squad. The show, which ran until 1973, was groundbreaking for its portrayal of social issues like police brutality, abortion, and domestic violence.
In the series, Cole played Pete Cochran, a troubled young man from a wealthy Beverly Hills family who found redemption by working as an undercover officer alongside Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III. The characters formed a trio of young, relatable cops tasked with tackling crime in a rapidly changing cultural landscape.
The series was one of the first to reflect the counterculture movement on television, with its main characters—Cochran, a delinquent; Julie, a runaway; and Linc, a man arrested during the Watts riots—given a second chance to serve as undercover agents. Their youth and background allowed them to connect with the rebellious subcultures of the late 1960s.
After his success on The Mod Squad, Cole continued acting in popular TV series like Murder, She Wrote, Fantasy Island, Wonder Woman, and The Love Boat. He also appeared in the 1990 adaptation of Stephen King’s It, playing adult Henry Bowers. His film credits included roles in The Bubble, Nickel Mountain, and Mr. Brooks. His final film appearance was in the 2008 movie Grave Misconduct.
Cole also had a passion for theater, performing in productions like Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. In 2009, he published a memoir titled I Played the White Guy, where he candidly shared his journey through Hollywood.
Michael Cole is survived by his wife, Shelley, and his children.