‘The Mod Squad’ Star Passes Away At 84
Michael Cole, best known for his role as Pete Cochran in the groundbreaking series “Mod Squad” and as Harlan Barrett on “General Hospital,” has died at the age of 84. His death was confirmed by his representatives at BMF, concluding a celebrated acting career that spanned over five decades.
On Tuesday Cole died peacefully “surrounded by his loved ones after living a full and vibrant life,” his rep confirmed in a press release to People. “Cole’s talent, combined with his magnetic presence, made him a defining figure of the era,” the release said. “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. 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.”
Cast photo from the television program The Mod Squad. From left:Tige Andrews, Clarence Williams III, Peggy Lipton, Michael Cole.
The statement concluded, “While his loss is deeply felt, his contributions to the arts and his enduring kindness ensure his memory will live on.”
Farewell to Michael Cole (1940-2024) — Co-star of THE MOD SQUAD w/ Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III.
“Aaron Spelling saw in me what he wanted,” Cole said of his role in ABC’s counterculture cop drama. “A rebellious, angry, anti-authority kid who battled the system.” pic.twitter.com/k167zmoahq
— Will McKinley (@willmckinley) December 11, 2024
Born in Madison, Wisconsin, Cole’s acting career began in 1961. He gained prominence with “The Mod Squad,” which aired from 1968 to 1973. The series was notable for addressing themes of racial and social justice, with Cole’s performance contributing authenticity and heart to the show.
Publicity photo from the television program The Mod Squad. The main cast is pictured, from left: Clarence Williams III, Peggy Lipton, Michael Cole.
Following “The Mod Squad,” Cole appeared in various television series, including “Wonder Woman,” “The Love Boat,” “Fantasy Island,” and “Murder, She Wrote.” In the 1990s, he portrayed Henry Bowers in the miniseries adaptation of Stephen King’s “It” and took on the role of Harlan Barrett in “General Hospital.”
In 2009, Cole published a memoir titled “I Played the White Guy,” detailing his experiences in Hollywood.
Michael Cole’s final role was in the TV movie I wrote called GRAVE MISCONDUCT. Here he is sharing the screen with Joanna Miles and Crystal Bernard. My condolences go out to his family and friends. https://t.co/XN5RzYeJaY pic.twitter.com/6Nr9uBZuIr
— Matthew Chernov (@MatthewChernov) December 10, 2024
He is survived by his wife, Shelley, his children, and a wide circle of friends and admirers.