In a deeply heartbreaking turn of events, The Young and the Restless fans are mourning the loss of an unforgettable

talent. Cole, a gifted actor with a magnetic presence, captured audiences with every scene he appeared in. His

undeniable charisma made him a natural choice to step into the role of playboy Lance Prentice, filling the shoes of John

McCook, who later went on to become a household name as Eric Forrester on The Bold and the Beautiful. Cole’s performance on Y&R left an indelible mark on fans, solidifying his place in the soap opera’s history.

Cole’s acting career, however, extended far beyond Genoa City. He was a staple in prime-time television throughout the 1960s to the 1980s, gracing iconic shows like Three’s Company, The Love Boat, and many others. During that era, if a show needed a charming, talented leading man, Cole was often the first to get the call. His guest appearance on Charlie’s Angels in 1976 even led to a high-profile romance with series star Jaclyn Smith. Their whirlwind romance culminated in marriage after just 19 months of dating, a relationship that, for the time, was as high-profile as any Hollywood pairing today. Though their marriage didn’t last, it was a major moment in Cole’s life and career, symbolizing his stature and appeal as an actor.

But while his career was filled with dazzling moments on screen, Cole also endured heartbreaking struggles in his personal life. In 1991, he faced an unimaginable tragedy when his son from his first marriage was killed during a robbery outside his home. At the time, his son had been sharing a house with punk rock icon Henry Rollins, frontman of Black Flag and the Rollins Band. This devastating loss had a profound impact on Cole, who became an outspoken advocate against violence on television, passionately campaigning to raise awareness and encourage responsibility in media. The tragedy marked a significant turning point in his life, inspiring him to use his platform to push for change and promote peace.

Despite the personal heartaches he endured, Cole’s career continued to flourish. He showcased his versatility by taking on the role of King Marchan in the first national tour of the hit musical Victor/Victoria. Yet even this chapter in his life was clouded by misfortune; he suffered an injury during the tour that sidelined him for years as he worked to recover. True to his resilient spirit, Cole persevered through the pain, eventually making a return to the spotlight.

In 2008, another major shift occurred when Cole and his third wife divorced. Together, they had started a real estate company in Fort Lauderdale, showing that his talents extended beyond the entertainment industry. While the end of their marriage marked another personal challenge, Cole continued to leave an impression on those who knew him, both as an actor and a businessman.

As fans mourn his passing, it’s easy to look back on the difficult chapters of his life. But Cole was so much more than the struggles he faced; he was a light on screen, a captivating performer who gave life to every character he portrayed. Fans remember him most fondly as Lance Prentice, the charming playboy of The Young and the Restless, and the countless other roles that highlighted his range and warmth. He was an actor who brought sophistication, depth, and passion to every project he touched, leaving a legacy that will be cherished by fans and colleagues alike.

Today, as we reflect on Cole’s life, let’s remember the joy he brought to screens and the impact he made as a talented, compassionate individual. In the comments, share your favorite memories of Cole as Lance or any other role that touched your heart, honoring the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to storytelling, resilience, and purpose. His loss is a heavy blow to the Y&R community and fans worldwide, and his memory will continue to be celebrated for years to come.