Michael Cole, Star of 'The Mod Squad,' Dies Peacefully at 84
The actor, known for his role as Pete Cochran in the groundbreaking 1960s series, passed away surrounded by loved ones.
- Michael Cole, best known for his role in 'The Mod Squad,' died on December 10, 2024, at the age of 84 at Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center in Los Angeles.
- 'The Mod Squad,' which ran from 1968 to 1973, was a pioneering series addressing social issues like racism, police brutality, and the counterculture movement of the 1960s.
- Cole portrayed Pete Cochran, a troubled youth turned undercover cop, alongside co-stars Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III, both of whom predeceased him.
- In addition to his iconic role, Cole appeared in shows like 'Murder, She Wrote,' 'ER,' and the 1990 miniseries adaptation of Stephen King's 'It,' as well as regional theater productions.
- Cole is survived by his third wife, Shelley Funes, and his children, and is remembered for his contributions to television and his warm, generous spirit.