The Mod Squad Cast: Where Are They Now?

The Mod Squad, a groundbreaking television series that aired from 1968 to 1973, captivated audiences with its portrayal of three young, hip undercover cops tackling crime within the counterculture movement. The show’s success hinged not only on its innovative premise but also on the charismatic performances of its main cast. But what happened to the actors who brought Pete Cochran, Linc Hayes, and Julie Barnes to life? This article delves into the lives and careers of the Mod Squad cast members after their time on the iconic show.

A Look Back at The Mod Squad

Before diving into what the Mod Squad cast is doing now, it’s essential to understand the impact of the show itself. The Mod Squad was a cultural phenomenon, addressing social issues such as drug use, domestic violence, and anti-war sentiment, often reflecting the turbulent times of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The show’s popularity helped launch the careers of its young stars, but it also presented unique challenges for them as they navigated their post-Mod Squad lives.

The Core Trio: Then and Now

Michael Cole as Pete Cochran

Michael Cole played Pete Cochran, the rebellious son of wealthy parents who found himself in trouble with the law before being recruited into the Mod Squad. Cole’s portrayal of Pete resonated with young viewers who identified with his anti-establishment attitude. After The Mod Squad, Cole continued to work in television, appearing in numerous guest roles on shows like Murder, She Wrote, Fantasy Island, and The Love Boat. He also had recurring roles on daytime dramas such as General Hospital and The Young and the Restless. While Cole never achieved the same level of fame as he did with The Mod Squad, he maintained a steady acting career and remained a recognizable face in Hollywood. Information on Michael Cole’s current activities is limited, but he remains a memorable part of television history thanks to his role in the Mod Squad cast.

Clarence Williams III as Linc Hayes

Clarence Williams III portrayed Linc Hayes, a troubled youth from Watts who joined the Mod Squad to escape a life of crime. Williams’s performance was particularly powerful, as he brought a depth and complexity to the character that resonated with audiences. After The Mod Squad, Williams enjoyed a successful career in both television and film. He appeared in movies such as Purple Rain, Sugar Hill, and Half Baked. He also had recurring roles on television shows like Twin Peaks and Everybody Hates Chris. Williams was known for his versatility as an actor, and he often played characters who were both tough and vulnerable. Sadly, Clarence Williams III passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy as a talented and influential actor. His contribution to the Mod Squad cast and his subsequent work will always be remembered.

Peggy Lipton as Julie Barnes

Peggy Lipton played Julie Barnes, a runaway with a troubled past who completed the Mod Squad trio. Lipton’s beauty and vulnerability made her an instant star, and her portrayal of Julie resonated with young women who were struggling to find their place in the world. After The Mod Squad, Lipton took a break from acting to focus on raising her two daughters with then-husband Quincy Jones. She returned to television in the late 1980s with a recurring role on Twin Peaks, which helped to revive her career. Lipton also appeared in films such as The Postman and When in Rome. She remained a beloved figure in Hollywood until her passing in 2019. Peggy Lipton’s impact on the Mod Squad cast and her subsequent career solidified her status as a pop culture icon.

Supporting Players and Guest Stars

While the core trio of the Mod Squad cast received the most attention, the show also featured a talented supporting cast and numerous guest stars who went on to have successful careers in their own right. These actors helped to create the rich and diverse world of The Mod Squad, and their contributions should not be overlooked.

Tige Andrews as Captain Adam Greer

Tige Andrews played Captain Adam Greer, the Mod Squad‘s mentor and supervisor. Andrews was a seasoned actor before joining the show, and he brought a sense of authority and gravitas to the role. After The Mod Squad, Andrews continued to work in television, appearing in guest roles on shows like Kojak and The Six Million Dollar Man. He also had a successful career as a voice actor. Tige Andrews passed away in 2007, but his portrayal of Captain Greer remains a memorable part of television history.

Notable Guest Stars

The Mod Squad featured a plethora of guest stars who later became household names. These included:

• Richard Pryor: Before becoming a comedic legend, Pryor appeared in an episode of The Mod Squad, showcasing his dramatic acting abilities.
• Sam Elliott: Elliott, known for his rugged charm and distinctive voice, also made an early appearance on the show.
• Leslie Nielsen: Long before his comedic roles in films like Airplane! and The Naked Gun, Nielsen played a more serious role on The Mod Squad.
• Tom Bosley: Best known as Mr. Cunningham on Happy Days, Bosley also guest-starred on the show.

These guest appearances highlight the show’s influence and its ability to attract up-and-coming talent. The Mod Squad cast, both regular and guest, contributed to the show’s enduring legacy.

The Legacy of The Mod Squad

The Mod Squad remains a significant part of television history, not only for its innovative premise but also for its impact on popular culture. The show helped to break down barriers and challenge stereotypes, and it paved the way for more diverse and inclusive representation on television. The Mod Squad cast became cultural icons, and their performances continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.

The show also influenced fashion and music trends of the era. The Mod Squad‘s hip clothing and hairstyles were widely copied by young people, and the show’s soundtrack featured some of the biggest hits of the day. The Mod Squad was more than just a television show; it was a reflection of the changing times.

Challenges and Triumphs After The Mod Squad

For the members of the Mod Squad cast, life after the show presented both challenges and triumphs. While the show launched their careers, it also typecast them to some extent. They had to work hard to break free from the image of their Mod Squad characters and prove their versatility as actors. Some were more successful than others, but all of them continued to pursue their passion for acting.

The premature deaths of Clarence Williams III and Peggy Lipton were a great loss to the entertainment industry. Their contributions to The Mod Squad and their subsequent work will always be remembered. Michael Cole, while less visible in recent years, remains a significant figure in television history.

The Mod Squad Reunion and Remakes

In 1999, a film adaptation of The Mod Squad was released, starring Claire Danes, Omar Epps, and Giovanni Ribisi. While the film was not a critical or commercial success, it helped to introduce the show to a new generation of viewers. The original Mod Squad cast did not participate in the film, but they were reportedly supportive of the project.

There have also been talks of a television reboot of The Mod Squad, but as of now, nothing has materialized. However, the show’s enduring popularity suggests that a reboot could be successful if done right. A new version of the Mod Squad could explore contemporary social issues and introduce a new generation of viewers to the show’s unique blend of action, drama, and social commentary.

Conclusion

The Mod Squad cast left an indelible mark on television history. Michael Cole, Clarence Williams III, and Peggy Lipton, along with the supporting cast and guest stars, created a show that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. While their lives and careers took different paths after The Mod Squad, their contributions to the show continue to be celebrated by fans around the world. The Mod Squad remains a testament to the power of television to reflect and influence society, and the Mod Squad cast will forever be remembered as pioneers of the medium. [See also: Classic TV Shows of the 1960s] [See also: Undercover Cop Dramas Ranked] [See also: Peggy Lipton’s Life and Career]