Trivia

Went to college with John Malkovich.

Attended Illinois State University where he was among fellow actors Laurie Metcalf and John Malkovich.

Gary has appeared in numerous award-winning productions in Chicago as well as off-Broadway in New York.

Don Johnson & Philip Michael Thomas edged out Cole and Jimmy Smits for the roles of Crockett & Tubbs in Miami Vice (1984).

Began acting as Snoopy in a high school production of You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Daughter, Mary, diagnosed with autism at age 28 months. In 2007, at age 14, she is responding very well to education, treatment, and a special friend - a dog named Tattinger. Cole relates their experience in the anthological book, "Love Heels: Tales from Canine Companions for Independence." Although autism is not curable, it is very treatable, and Mary is, by all appearances, a normal child due to treatment, support, and the dedication of loving parents.

Longtime friend of William Petersen.

He has played both the President and Vice-President of the United States in different productions: President Mike Brady in The Brady Bunch in the White House (2002) and Vice-President Bob Russell in The West Wing (1999).

Has a daughter with Teddi Siddall.

In 1985, became a member of the Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble.

Received the honor as being a Distinguished Alumnus at Rolling Meadows High School.

He was nominated for a 1982 Joseph Jefferson Award for Actor in a Principal Role in a Play for "The Tooth of Crime" at the Remains Theatre in Chicago, Illinois.

He was awarded the 1987 Joseph Jefferson Award for Actor in a Principal Role in a Play for "Bang" at the Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago, Illinois.

He was nominated for a 1981 Joseph Jefferson Award For Cameo Performance for his role in "The Magnolia Club" at the Novel Ventures Ltd. Theatre in Chicago, Illinois.

Starred in the theatrical play "If All the Sky Were Paper" narrated by Garrett Schweighauser alongside Annette Bening, Laura Dern, Jim Beaver, Christopher Sweeney, and Michael Conner Humphreys.

He was awarded the 1987 Joseph Jefferson Award for Actor in a Principal Role in a Play for "Bang" at the Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago, Illinois.