Remembering Television Pioneers Tina Cole, Don Grady, And The Triplets On ‘My Three Sons’

Aug 27, 2024

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"My Three Sons" was a beloved American sitcom from 1960 to 1972, capturing viewers' hearts with its wholesome depiction of family life. The series revolved around widower Steve Douglas, played by the late actor Fred MacMurray, and his three sons. Throughout its 12-season run, the show became a staple of family television, reflecting the values and dynamics of the mid-20th-century American household. In later seasons, a key addition to the show was Tina Cole, who portrayed Katie Miller Douglas, the wife of Steve’s second son, Robbie. Cole's character brought a fresh dynamic to the series, as her marriage to Robbie introduced the show’s depiction of young love, marriage, and, eventually, parenthood.

Cole joined the series in 1967 and quickly became a fan favorite. Her character's warmth, charm, and grace resonated with viewers, making Katie relatable during an era when traditional family values were at the forefront of American culture. Cole's role expanded as the series progressed, and her on-screen chemistry with Don Grady, who played Robbie, helped solidify the show’s appeal. 

After the show ended in 1972, Cole and Grady pursued different paths in life. Cole left the limelight and became the director of Sacramento Children's Theatre. She was an acting coach at the John Robert Powers acting schools in Roseville and Elk Grove, California. As for Grady, he rekindled his love for music and pursued music production as a full-time career. 

Keep reading to learn more about Cole, Grady, and their three sons on the show and what they are up to now. 

Growing up, Cole didn’t want to be an actress. MeTV reported that she wanted to be an elementary teacher instead. After “My Three Sons” ended, Cole shied away from the cameras and glamour of Hollywood. She then fused her dream job and career when she became the Sacramento Children's Theatre director. Many still remember her brilliance in acting today. Cole posts photos of herself and her big family on her Facebook account, sharing endearing milestones with her four children. 

The New York Times reported that Grady passed away in 2012 at 68 years old after battling myeloma (a type of blood cancer). Before his passing, his contributions to music were widely recognized. He was behind the theme song of Phil Donahue’s talk show, and plenty of his work appeared on television and in films.

As for Cole and Grady’s triplets in the television show, they did not pursue careers in acting after the show ended in 1972. Joe Todd, one of the actors who portrayed the triplets, revealed in a 2018 interview that although they took a few opportunities after the show ended, they realized that Hollywood is “not for everybody.” 

"Hollywood always portrays itself as lollipops and rainbows, but there's more to it," Todd said.

The three brothers then lived a normal life until college, when they realized they didn’t want to do it. Instead, they enlisted in the US Army to serve the country. He explained that although they grew up being identified as triplets, serving in the Army allowed them to develop individual identities.

In June 2018, Cole took a trip down memory lane and posted a photo of her “three sons,” who have all grown up already. 

Fans on social media were blown away by their photos, with many saying, “Wow they look great I was wondering what ever became of them."

Were you a fan of “My Three Sons?” Do you remember Tina Cole, Tom Grady, and the triplets? What can you say about them now? Let us know, and pass this on to your family, friends, and other loved ones out there!