Peter Krause is a name that quietly resonates with fans of quality television drama. Known for his calm intensity and thoughtful performances, Krause has steadily carved out a place in Hollywood through consistent, impactful roles in some of the most acclaimed series of the past few decades. From his early acting roots to his powerful presence in shows like Six Feet Under, Parenthood, and 9-1-1, his career is a testament to dedication, versatility, and a passion for storytelling.
Early Life and Education
Peter William Krause was born on August 12, 1965, in Alexandria, Minnesota, and raised in Roseville, a suburb of St. Paul. Both of his parents were teachers — his father was a high school English teacher and his mother taught second grade. Krause grew up alongside his sister, Amy, and a younger brother.
Initially, Krause pursued a pre-med path at Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, Minnesota. However, a high school pole-vaulting injury led him to explore the world of acting. Eventually, he shifted his focus and graduated in 1987 with a degree in English Literature. Passionate about performing, he went on to earn a Master of Fine Arts in Acting from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts in 1990.
Career Beginnings
Krause’s acting journey began with small roles in both film and television. His first appearance came in the low-budget horror film Blood Harvest (1987). Shortly after, he began landing guest roles on TV series, including Carol & Company (1990), where he worked alongside Carol Burnett and Richard Kind.
Throughout the 1990s, Krause appeared in a wide range of television programs, showcasing his adaptability. Notable credits from this time include guest spots and recurring roles on Beverly Hills, 90210, Ellen, The Drew Carey Show, and Party of Five. He also played Kevin Blanders, the son-in-law on Cybill, a recurring role that gave him more visibility.
Breakthrough Roles
Sports Night (1998–2000)
Krause’s big break came in 1998 with Sports Night, an innovative sports-themed dramedy created by Aaron Sorkin. Krause played Casey McCall, a charming and driven sports anchor navigating life both in front of and behind the camera.
Though Sports Night lasted only two seasons, it earned critical acclaim and a cult following. Krause’s performance stood out, blending confidence with vulnerability — a combination that would become a hallmark of his acting style.
Six Feet Under (2001–2005)
Krause’s most iconic role came in the early 2000s when he starred as Nate Fisher in HBO’s Six Feet Under, created by Alan Ball. The show centered around a family-run funeral home, and Krause’s portrayal of Nate — a conflicted, often brooding character — earned him widespread praise.
He received three Emmy nominations and two Golden Globe nominations for his work on the show. His chemistry with co-stars like Frances Conroy, Michael C. Hall, and Lauren Ambrose was a driving force in the series’ emotional weight. The show ran for five seasons and remains one of HBO’s most beloved dramas.
Continued Success and Major Projects
Dirty Sexy Money (2007–2009)
Following Six Feet Under, Krause took on the lead role in Dirty Sexy Money, playing Nick George, a lawyer caught up in the drama of a wealthy and influential New York family. The series also featured Donald Sutherland and William Baldwin. Though the show was canceled after two seasons, Krause also served as a producer, gaining experience behind the camera.
Parenthood (2010–2015)
Krause found lasting success once again with Parenthood, NBC’s heartfelt family drama. He played Adam Braverman, the eldest sibling in a multi-generational family navigating life’s ups and downs.
Krause starred alongside Lauren Graham, Craig T. Nelson, and Bonnie Bedelia, and quickly became a fan favorite for his realistic and grounded portrayal of fatherhood and family life. The chemistry between Krause and Graham was more than just on-screen — the pair were in a relationship for over a decade.
9-1-1 (2018–Present)
In 2018, Krause joined the cast of FOX’s emergency responder drama 9-1-1, playing Captain Bobby Nash, a firehouse leader dealing with personal demons while saving lives in Los Angeles. Created by Ryan Murphy, the series is a ratings success, and Krause also serves as an executive producer.
His role once again highlights his strength in portraying emotionally layered characters with a strong moral compass.
Film Appearances
While television has been Krause’s primary platform, he has also made notable film appearances. These include:
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The Truman Show (1998)
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We Don’t Live Here Anymore (2004)
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Civic Duty (2006), where he played the lead and also served as producer
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Lovelife (1997), a romantic comedy
Personal Life
Peter Krause has always kept his personal life relatively private. He has one son, Roman Krause, born in 2001.
From 2010 to 2021, he was in a relationship with actress Lauren Graham, his co-star from Parenthood. Interestingly, the two had first met years earlier on the set of Caroline in the City.
Krause is known for his thoughtful nature and socially conscious views. He often speaks out on issues related to human rights, politics, and parenting. His reflective and empathetic approach to life is evident not just in his interviews but in the roles he chooses.
Trivia and Lesser-Known Facts
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Krause worked as a bartender alongside Sports Night creator Aaron Sorkin in New York during their early careers.
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He originally auditioned for the role of David on Six Feet Under but was cast as Nate due to his chemistry with co-star Rachel Griffiths.
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Despite playing doctors and lawyers on-screen, he generally avoids such roles unless the story adds depth and nuance.
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His last name is pronounced KROW-zuh, rhyming with “wow.”
Legacy and Influence
Peter Krause’s career is a masterclass in thoughtful, character-driven storytelling. He consistently chooses roles that challenge him and resonate with audiences. Whether it’s a grieving funeral director, a family man juggling responsibilities, or a seasoned firefighter, Krause brings a grounded, human quality to every performance.
His impact extends beyond acting. As a producer and creative collaborator, he has helped shape some of the most important shows of the past 20 years.
Conclusion
Peter Krause’s steady and impactful presence in American television has earned him respect from fans and peers alike. He’s a rare talent who lets his work speak for itself — never flashy, always sincere. With a career full of thoughtful roles and powerful performances, Krause continues to be a cornerstone of smart, character-driven storytelling on screen.
FAQs
Is Peter Krause married?
No, Peter Krause is not currently married. He was in a long-term relationship with actress Lauren Graham from 2010 to 2021.
What is Peter Krause known for?
He is best known for roles in Six Feet Under, Parenthood, 9-1-1, and Sports Night.
Does Peter Krause have children?
Yes, he has a son named Roman Krause, born in 2001.
What is Peter Krause doing now?
As of 2025, Krause stars in FOX’s 9-1-1 as Captain Bobby Nash and serves as an executive producer on the show.
Where did Peter Krause go to college?
He attended Gustavus Adolphus College, where he earned a degree in English Literature, and later earned an MFA in Acting from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts.