Actors Art Evans, David Weatherley, and Michael Cole Dies

These actors portrayed parts such as Corporal Cobb in “A Soldier’s Story”, Barliman Butterbur, the innkeeper of The Prancing Pony, in “The Lord of the Rings” series, and a hip undercover police detective in the TV series “Mod Squad”.

Arthur James Evans, commonly known as Art Evans, was born on March 27, 1942, in Berkeley, California. Raised in a culturally rich environment, Evans developed an early passion for acting and storytelling. His career began on the stage, where he honed his craft performing in theatrical productions. This foundation enabled him to transition seamlessly to the screen, bringing a sense of authenticity and depth to every role he portrayed.

One of his earliest notable performances was in the acclaimed film A Soldier’s Story (1984), where he played Corporal Cobb. The movie, celebrated for its commentary on racial issues within the military, earned Evans widespread recognition and set the stage for a prolific career in Hollywood. Evans continued to build his legacy with memorable roles in films like Die Hard 2 (1990),

where he portrayed air traffic controller Leslie Barnes, a character pivotal to the suspenseful plot. Beyond the big screen, Evans was a familiar face on television, with appearances in series such as Hill Street Blues and The X-Files.

David Weatherley, a British-born actor who settled in New Zealand, became a beloved figure in the world of film and television. Born on March 1, 1939, he initially pursued acting in his native England before relocating to New Zealand, where he became an integral part of the country’s entertainment industry. Weatherley’s career spanned several decades, but he is perhaps best remembered for his portrayal of Barliman Butterbur,

the innkeeper of The Prancing Pony, in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001). His performance, though brief, left a lasting impression and introduced him to a global audience. In addition to his work in Peter Jackson’s epic trilogy, Weatherley appeared in popular television series such as Power Rangers Operation Overdrive and Home and Away.

His adaptability allowed him to take on diverse roles, ranging from comedic to dramatic. Weatherley also lent his talents to stage productions, showcasing his theatrical roots. Despite not receiving major accolades, his contribution to New Zealand’s film and television landscape was significant, earning him recognition as one of the country’s finest character actors. Weatherley passed away on Saturday, December 21, 2024, at the age of 85, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to inspire aspiring actors.

Michael Cole, born on July 3, 1940, in Madison, Wisconsin, rose to fame during the late 1960s as one of the stars of the groundbreaking television series The Mod Squad. Playing the role of Pete Cochran, a troubled yet resourceful young man recruited into an undercover police unit, Cole captured the spirit of the era with his portrayal. The show, which ran from 1968 to 1973, was revolutionary for its focus on youth culture and social issues,

and Cole’s performance resonated deeply with audiences. His chemistry with co-stars Peggy Lipton and Clarence Williams III helped make The Mod Squad a cultural touchstone and earned him lasting recognition. Following the success of The Mod Squad, Cole continued to work in television and film, appearing in projects such as Police Story and CHiPs. His ability to adapt to various genres and characters showcased his range as an actor,

although he often remained closely associated with his iconic role as Pete Cochran. In his later years, Cole appeared in interviews and retrospectives, reflecting on the enduring legacy of The Mod Squad. Though he did not receive major industry awards, his contribution to television history was undeniable. In 2018, He wrote the book “I Played the White Guy” on BearManor Media. Cole passed away on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the age of 84, remembered fondly by fans for his charisma and impactful performances.