Meet the Woman Behind the Man Who Took Over for Gibbs
Since stepping into NCIS as Special Agent Alden Parker in Season 19, Gary Cole has had some big shoes to fill — taking over after the legendary Mark Harmon left the show. But while fans have come to embrace his calm confidence and understated charm on screen, many are now asking: Is Gary Cole married in real life?
The answer is yes — and the story behind it is both heartwarming and, in part, bittersweet.
💍 A Second Chance at Love: Meet Michelle Knapp
Gary Cole, 68, is currently married to Michelle Knapp, an interior designer, artist, and model. The couple tied the knot in 2021 after several years of dating. While Gary keeps a low profile off-screen and isn’t active on social media, Michelle occasionally shares glimpses of their life together on her Instagram — from art projects to cozy couple snapshots.
When they wed, Michelle shared that their wedding was “nothing but family, friends, love, joy, laughter and fun.” It was a small but meaningful celebration that reflected the couple’s quiet but solid bond.
💔 The Past: A Tragic Ending to His First Marriage
Before finding love with Michelle, Gary was married to actress Teddi Siddall for 25 years. The couple, who share one daughter, Mary, were considered one of Hollywood’s quieter, more private unions.
In 2017, Teddi filed for divorce — a move that surprised many. Tragically, she passed away just months later in 2018 at the age of 64. The cause of death was never made public, and the sudden loss added a painful chapter to Gary’s personal life.
👨👧 Fatherhood and Moving Forward
Gary Cole is also a devoted father to Mary Cole, his daughter from his first marriage. Despite being one of Hollywood’s most consistent character actors, he’s always made family a priority — something he continues to do today, even with his packed NCIS filming schedule.
🎬 From Cult Films to Prime-Time TV Royalty
With roles in everything from Office Space and Talladega Nights to The Good Wife and Veep, Cole has spent decades building a career filled with memorable characters. Now, as the new face of NCIS, he’s found a steady home on one of the longest-running dramas on television.
Final Thought:
Gary Cole may have taken over a legacy role on NCIS, but off screen, he’s quietly crafted a life filled with resilience, reinvention, and a renewed sense of joy. While Gibbs may be gone, fans can rest assured that Parker — and Cole himself — are exactly where they belong.
