Born on September 20, 1956 in Park Ridge, Illinois, Gary Cole is an actor best known for his role in several popular shows, such as the television series The West Wing and Arrested Development, and the films Office Space, The Brady Bunch Movie, Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, and Pineapple Express. The son of a school administrator and a director of finance, Cole attended Rolling Meadows High School, which witnessed his first dramatic appearance as Snoopy in a production of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. He went on to attend Illinois State University, eventually graduating with a degree in theater.
Gary Cole started off as a stage actor in Chicago. He then moved to New York where he performed in several off-Broadway productions. He has also lent his voice to characters in animated series, such as Family Guy, Kim Possible, and Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law. He also had recurring roles in the drama The West Wing, Babylon 5, Arrested Development and Law and Order: Special Victims Unit.
However, Cole is best remembered for the comedy film Office Space, where his character Bill Lumberhg is often quoted and is one of the most annoying bosses of late. Meanwhile, he also starred on the TNT series Wanted and voiced the title role on the series Harvey Birdman, Attorney at Law. He also starred in Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby, Forever Strong, and American Pastime. He also appeared as a Desperate Housewives ex-husband on the ABC comedy. He almost got the roles of Crockett in Miami Vice, which eventually went to Don Johnson.
Cole’s daughter with writer-actress Teddi Siddall, Mary, was diagnosed with autism when she was 28 months old. Reportedly responding well to education and treatment, Cole shared his experiences via a book entitled Love Heels: Tales from Canine Companions for Independence.