Introduction: Gary Cole’s Journey Started With a Supernatural Twist
Before Gary Cole became Special Agent Alden Parker on NCIS and before he voiced one of the most iconic bosses in pop culture (Office Space‘s Bill Lumbergh), he made his TV leading man debut in a supernatural series that flew under the radar but left a haunting impression on its fans.
We’re talking about “Midnight Caller,” an atmospheric, moody crime-meets-paranormal drama that aired from 1988 to 1991. While it’s largely overshadowed by today’s gritty cop procedurals, this show was a groundbreaking blend of radio talk shows, late-night confessionals, and ghostly undertones.
Let’s dive deep into this forgotten gem and the role that launched Gary Cole into the limelight long before he walked the halls of NCIS headquarters.
The Forgotten Show That Started It All
What Was “Midnight Caller”?
“Midnight Caller” was one of the first TV dramas to tackle mature themes like mental illness, addiction, trauma, and yes—sometimes even the supernatural—through the lens of a late-night radio talk show host.
Gary Cole played Jack Killian, a former San Francisco police detective turned insomniac radio DJ. After accidentally killing his partner in a shootout, Killian leaves the force and becomes “The Nighthawk,” a host who helps his listeners wrestle with their deepest fears and secrets.
Why the Series Was Ahead of Its Time
Think of it as a precursor to modern-day emotional podcasts like The Moth or Therapy Chat, but wrapped inside a noir-style detective story. Midnight Caller combined suspense, morality plays, and human vulnerability in a way that was rare on late-‘80s television.
Gary Cole: The Breakout Star
How “Midnight Caller” Gave Gary Cole His Edge
Playing Jack Killian was no walk in the park. The role demanded raw emotional depth, gravelly-voiced intensity, and the ability to carry scenes solo while talking into a microphone. Gary Cole nailed all of it—and more.
He brought a mix of brooding intensity and quiet empathy to the role. You couldn’t look away. He wasn’t your typical macho action hero—he was damaged, thoughtful, and utterly human. That emotional complexity helped set him apart from other actors of his time.
Early Praise for Gary Cole’s Performance
Critics praised Cole’s performance, calling him “the thinking man’s action hero.” His portrayal drew comparisons to noir icons like Humphrey Bogart and Robert Mitchum—men who wore their past like a trench coat and weren’t afraid to confront it.
For a guy fresh into a starring TV role, that’s pretty impressive.
The Supernatural Angle: Was “Midnight Caller” Really That Spooky?
Yes—and No
“Midnight Caller” wasn’t The X-Files, but it wasn’t just another cop drama either. Some episodes flirted with the paranormal. Callers would report ghost sightings. Dreams would come true. Unexplained coincidences would ripple through the city like bad vibes in the air.
Jack Killian himself often acted like a modern-day ghost hunter—not with gadgets, but with intuition, compassion, and a deep sense of moral responsibility.
A Psychological Haunting
Many of the show’s most chilling moments weren’t about ghosts at all. They were about trauma, guilt, and the demons we carry inside. This show made it clear: the scariest stories come from within.
The Cultural Impact of “Midnight Caller”
It Paved the Way for Future Series
You can draw a direct line from Midnight Caller to later hits like:
-
The X-Files
-
Millennium
-
Dexter
-
Mindhunter
-
Hannibal
These shows all explore the shadowy sides of human nature, much like Jack Killian did night after night from his lonely radio booth.
It Wasn’t Afraid to Get Dark
While many ’80s shows leaned into cheesiness and escapism, Midnight Caller was dead serious. It forced viewers to confront uncomfortable truths. That boldness earned it both praise and controversy.
Why You’ve Probably Never Heard of It
Lack of Syndication and Streaming
Unlike its peers, Midnight Caller never got a second life in syndication. And you won’t find it on Netflix, Hulu, or Prime either. It’s a ghost show that’s become a ghost itself—trapped in VHS purgatory.
It Was Too Real for Its Time
The subject matter was intense, even by today’s standards. Combine that with its noir tone, and the show struggled to reach a wide audience. But for those who did tune in, it left a lasting impression.
Gary Cole’s Career Took Off From There
He Became the King of Versatility
From horror (The Ring Two) to comedy (Veep, Office Space), Gary Cole’s range is staggering. His role on Midnight Caller proved early on that he could do serious drama—and he’s kept that reputation ever since.
Joining NCIS Cemented His TV Icon Status
When Gary Cole joined NCIS in Season 19 as Alden Parker, he wasn’t just filling a role—he was bringing decades of dramatic gravitas with him. Fans who’ve followed his career since Midnight Caller saw it as a full-circle moment.
Why “Midnight Caller” Deserves a Comeback
It’s Ripe for a Reboot
Today’s audiences are obsessed with podcasts, true crime, and the paranormal—exactly what Midnight Caller offered decades ago. A modern reboot could easily thrive in today’s streaming world.
It Was a Show About Connection Before Social Media
Before Twitter threads and Reddit confessions, there was Jack Killian’s phone line. The show tapped into the human need to be heard—something even more relevant now in our digitally isolated age.
The Legacy of Jack Killian Lives On
While Midnight Caller may be collecting dust in television’s attic, Gary Cole’s performance as Jack Killian still resonates. It was a role built on pain, redemption, and late-night honesty—and it deserves a spotlight again.
Conclusion: Long Before Gibbs and NCIS, There Was the Nighthawk
Gary Cole didn’t become a household name overnight. He paid his dues in smoky radio booths, grappling with ghost stories and gritty human truths. Midnight Caller wasn’t just his first starring role—it was a masterclass in storytelling.
For those who remember it, the show was unforgettable. And for everyone else, it’s time to dig into this lost treasure and appreciate the role that helped shape one of TV’s most underrated talents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What was Gary Cole’s first major TV role?
Gary Cole’s first major TV role was Jack Killian in Midnight Caller, which aired from 1988 to 1991 on NBC.
2. Was Midnight Caller a supernatural show?
Not fully. While it wasn’t centered on ghosts, the show often had eerie or paranormal undertones, especially in episodes that explored psychological trauma or bizarre coincidences.
3. Can I watch Midnight Caller anywhere today?
Unfortunately, Midnight Caller is not available on mainstream streaming platforms. Some episodes may be found through niche DVD collections or fan-uploaded content online.
4. Why did Midnight Caller end after three seasons?
Although critically acclaimed, the show struggled with ratings and had a niche audience. Combined with the heavy subject matter, NBC chose not to renew it after Season 3.
5. How did Midnight Caller influence Gary Cole’s later roles?
It showcased his ability to play layered, emotionally complex characters—traits that carried over into later roles like Kent Davison in Veep, Kurt McVeigh in The Good Wife, and Alden Parker on NCIS.
Let me know if you want a second article written in this same format for another forgotten early role or actor!
