Which role did Michael Cole play on General Hospital? Details explored as actor passes away at 84

Michael Cole, on the ABC soap opera General Hospital, played the role of Harlan Barrett from March to November 1991 until the character made an exit from the town of Port Charles. Even though he was on the show briefly, the actor showcased his versatility by portraying a cunning and complex character embroiled in drama and lies.

Cole was born on July 3, 1940, in Madison, Wisconsin, and has been a part of the entertainment industry with his career spanning over 50 years. He acted in TV shows, movies, and plays and became well-known when people questioned traditional values. His work in The Mod Squad cemented his place in entertainment history.

As confirmed by BMF, the company representing Michael Cole, the actor died at the age of 84 on December 10, 2024. However, the cause and the details of his death are yet to be disclosed. As tributes pour in for the actor, fans remember his career highlights, including his time on General Hospital, his role in The Mod Squad, and his resilience in overcoming personal struggles.

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Who was Harlan Barrett on General Hospital?

Michael Cole played Harlan Barrett on General Hospital from March 7 to November 22, 1991. Harlan was a clever and tricky businessman, the main engineer at Barrett Industries, and a member of a sinister cartel. With his charm and ability to control situations, he quickly became a key player in Port Charles’ unfolding drama.

Harlan’s storyline began with his arrival to recover a ship, the S.S. Tracy, that had sunk. He was impressed by Bill Eckert’s cleverness and hired him as the chief engineer for Barrett Industries. Harlan was known for being good with women, and he tried to win over Tracy Quartermaine to get an advantage in ELQ.

But he didn’t realize how smart Tracy, Lucy Coe, and Monica Quartermaine were. They tricked him, drugged him, and held him captive overnight.

Later, Harlan teamed up with Leopold Taub, Cesar Faison, and Larry Ashton to create a group that wanted to control international trade. They used a harmful chemical, carbon disulfide, as part of their plan. They forced Paul Hornsby to spy on the Quartermaine family.

Harlan’s downfall came when he attempted to ensure Robert Scorpio’s demise, but Bill Eckert killed him instead to protect his friend. Harlan’s death marked the end of the cartel’s illicit activities.

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A revisit to General Hospital fame Michael Cole’s acting journey

Michael Cole started acting in 1961 with a role in the movie Forbid Them Not. He worked in many different genres of movies, like science fiction in The Bubble (1966) and western films like Chuka (1967). However, his role as Pete Cochran in The Mod Squad (1968-1973) made him famous worldwide, showing the rebellious spirit of that time.

Cole acted in many TV shows, such as Gunsmoke, Wonder Woman, The Love Boat, Fantasy Island, and ER. He also played more serious roles, like the troubled Henry Bowers in Stephen King's It miniseries (1990). His part as Harlan Barrett on General Hospital showed how he could make complicated characters feel real.

Outside of his work, Cole dealt with personal challenges, including a battle with alcoholism that he overcame with the help of his third wife, Shelley Funes. Cole, a father of three, reflected on his life and career in his 2009 memoir, I Played the White Guy. He remained active in acting well into his later years, with notable appearances in films like Mr. Brooks (2007).

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