Michael Cole, who is the last surviving member of The Mod Squad is dead, with a presumed cause of death from natural causes. The late icon paved his way into the hearts of millions as undercover officer Peter ‘Pete’ Cochran in the 60s/70s drama The Mod Squad. The show aired for five seasons from 1968 to 1973, with Michael making his splash alongside actors Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III who passed away in 2019 and 2021 respectively.
Years after his The Mod Squad costars passing, Michael Cole has been confirmed dead. His representative Rchel Harris announced his death on Tuesday, December 11, 2024, revealing he died peacefully, while surrounded by his loved ones. No cause of death was disclosed.
Michael Cole Rose to Fame on The Mod Squad
In the statement confirming Michael’s death, the reps lauded him for “living a full and vibrant life.” The statement also recognized Michael Cole’s talent and his contribution to TV on The Mod Squad among his other career ventures. His representative pointed out how the 70s series made the late star a household name, allowing him to break barriers “by addressing themes of racial and social justice.” While fans remember Michael as the amiable Pete Cochran, his friends, family, and loved ones will forever remember his “warm and generous spirit,” as well as his “wit, charm, and boundless compassion.” The statement continued,
“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. While his loss is deeply felt, his contributions to the arts and his enduring kindness ensure his memory will live on.”
The 84-year-old left behind his third wife Shelley Funes, and children from his first two marriages. While Michael Cole’s cause of death has yet to be revealed, fans across the internet while mourning the dead star attributed his “peaceful” passing to natural causes. The icon died on December 10, at the Providence Tarzana Medical Center in Tarzana, California with no previous illness or tragedy reported publicly.
Outside The Mod Squad, Michael Cole harnessed his acting skills in other TV appearances including General Hospital, Gunsmoke, Grave Misconduct, and Chukka and the Bubble. Additionally, he made notable guest appearances on Wonder Woman, CHiPs, Murder She Wrote, and 7th Heaven among others. He is also credited as the first person ever to swear on Logies after famously blurting out “sh-t” during a live telecast of the Australian award show in 1973, dubbed “one of the best Logies moments of all time.” Although dead, Michael Cole’s legacy would continue to live on through his loved ones, and countless magical moments immortalized on TV.
