Michael Cole has died at the age of 84.
The actor was best known for his roles as Pete Cochran in The Mod Squad and Harlan Barrett in General Hospital.
A representative of the star confirmed the news in a press release, revealing Cole died “surrounded by his loved ones after living a full and vibrant life.”
The actor’s cause of death is yet to be revealed.
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Cole’s representative, Rachel Harris, told US Today “Cole’s talent, combined with his magnetic presence, made him a defining figure of the era.
“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.”
“Michael Cole will be remembered for his warm and generous spirit,” adding he was “known among friends and family for his wit, charm, and boundless compassion, he brought joy to every room he entered.
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“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 statement added.
“While his loss is deeply felt, his contributions to the arts and his enduring kindness ensure his memory will live on.”
Cole found fame in the 1960s due to his role as Cochran in the police drama that lasted five seasons and wrapped up in 1973 after earning six Emmy Award nominations and four Golden Globe nominations.
The Mod Squad followed the adventures of three young undercover cops who had been told they either fight crime or go to prison themselves.
The actor’s co-stars Clarence Williams III and Peggy Lipton served as his fellow crime fighters. The trio reported to Capt. Adam Greer, played by Tige Andrews.
Cole was the last surviving member of the iconic team. Lipton died in May 2019 at age 72, while Williams died in June 2021 at age 81.
After making a name for himself in Hollywood through the series, Cole continued to work in the industry.
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In 1991, he landed the job playing Harlan Barrett in General Hospital, portraying a corrupt engineer for Barrett Industries for over 60 episodes.
Cole has also starred in ER, 7th Heaven, Diagnosis Murder, Wonder Woman, Murder She Wrote, CHiPs, Fantasy Island, The Love Boat and Gunsmoke and films The Apostate and Mr. Brooks.
His final role was in the 2010 short film Father’s Day; in 2018, Cole released a memoir on his life and career titled I Played the White Guy.
Cole is survived by his third wife, Shelley, the actor’s children and his “wide circle of friends, family, and admirers.”
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