Unraveling The Marital Life Of Michael Cole: More Than One Story

When the name Michael Cole is mentioned, many immediately think of the iconic voice of WWE, the wrestling commentator whose distinct delivery has become synonymous with sports entertainment for decades. However, delving into the personal life, specifically the marital history, of "Michael Cole" can lead to a fascinating journey, and perhaps, a bit of confusion. That's because the public record actually points to two prominent figures named Michael Cole, both with intriguing stories of love, family, and resilience. This article aims to clarify the narratives surrounding the wives of both Michael Coles, providing a comprehensive look at their enduring relationships and the challenges they've overcome.

Michael Cole, The Voice of WWE: An Enduring Partnership with Yolanda Cole

For fans of professional wrestling, Michael Cole, whose real name is Sean Michael Coulthard, has been a constant presence on their screens since joining WWE in 1997. Beyond the commentary booth, Cole's personal life is anchored by a strong and long-lasting marriage to Yolanda Cole, formerly known as Yolanda Ramirez and also referred to as Yolanda Coulthard.

Who is Yolanda Cole?

Yolanda Cole is much more than just the wife of a famous personality; she is a mother, a wife, and a civic advocate in her own right. A native of Weslaco, Texas, Yolanda graduated from Weslaco High School in 1980, laying the foundation for a life that would eventually intertwine with one of wrestling's most recognizable voices. While details of her professional career are kept private, her role as a supportive partner and dedicated mother is well-documented.

A Marriage Built to Last: Their Journey Since 1987

Michael Cole and Yolanda Cole have been happily married since 1987. This means that as of 2025, their union will have spanned an impressive 38 years, a testament to their strong bond and commitment. Their relationship is often described as one of mutual support, with Yolanda standing by her husband through every high and low of his demanding career.

The couple, who look "so cute together," have fostered a deep connection that allows Michael Cole to maintain a healthy balance between his public persona and private life. In fact, Cole himself has expressed how lucky he feels to have a family like his. He shared in an interview that his wife and children aren't interested in WWE, which helps him keep his private and professional life totally separate—a rare luxury for someone in the public eye.

Family Life: Sons and Privacy

While Michael and Yolanda Cole do not have biological children, their family is complete with two adopted sons, Calvin Cole and Mark Cole. The couple has embraced parenthood through adoption, building a loving home for their children. The decision to keep their family life largely private is respected by fans, allowing their sons to grow up away from the intense spotlight that often accompanies a WWE commentator's career.

Despite their desire for privacy, Michael Cole occasionally offers glimpses into his personal world. On January 30, 2023, during one of his live shows on YouTube, Michael Cole joined sports analyst Pat McAfee and, in a rare public mention, spoke about his wife. These small acknowledgments highlight the importance of Yolanda in his life and career, underscoring the enduring nature of their partnership.

Addressing the Confusion: Michael Cole, The Actor

The name "Michael Cole" isn't exclusively associated with the world of wrestling. There was another prominent Michael Cole, an American actor best remembered as a main protagonist in TV's "Mod Squad" (1968). This Michael Cole's marital history is distinct and equally compelling, often leading to confusion for those researching the name.

A Different Michael Cole: His Marital History

The actor Michael Cole had a more tumultuous marital life, having been married three times. His first marriage was in 1971 to Paula Kelly Jr., the daughter of two members of the vocal group The Modernaires, Paula Kelly and Harold Dickinson. Just a year after their wedding, in 1972, the couple welcomed their first child, Jennifer Holly Cole.

However, this marriage faced significant challenges. Cole's rise to success in Hollywood, coupled with his struggles with alcoholism, eventually led to their divorce sometime after their daughter was born. This period marked a difficult chapter in his life, characterized by personal struggles that impacted his relationships.

After two divorces, the actor Michael Cole found solace and stability with his third wife, Shelley Funes (also referred to as Shelly Funes). They married in 1996. Shelley played a pivotal role in his life, notably helping him overcome his habit of alcoholism. This relationship marked a turning point, providing him with the support needed to navigate his personal demons.

Michael Cole, the star of "The Mod Squad," passed away, and he is survived by his third wife, Shelley. His story is a poignant reminder of personal battles fought and the redemptive power of love and support in overcoming them.

Why the Confusion?

The overlap in names is a common occurrence, especially with relatively common names like Michael Cole. For researchers and fans, it means carefully discerning which "Michael Cole" is being referred to when looking up personal details. The presence of both a highly visible WWE commentator and a notable actor with the same name, both having public marital histories, naturally creates this overlap.

However, understanding the distinct paths and personal lives of each Michael Cole enriches the appreciation for their respective journeys. While one found enduring stability in a long-term marriage with Yolanda Cole, the other navigated a more complex path, ultimately finding a supportive partner in Shelley Funes who helped him through his most challenging times.

In summary, while Michael Cole the WWE commentator is famously married to Yolanda Cole since 1987, with whom he shares two adopted sons, there is also Michael Cole the actor, who was married three times, including to Paula Kelly Jr. and later to Shelley Funes, who helped him overcome alcoholism. Both individuals, despite sharing a name, led distinct lives, each marked by unique marital journeys and family dynamics.