Peter Krause had a lengthy career prior to 9-1-1. The actor joined the industry in the late ’80s and quickly found his footing on television, culminating in his starring role in Sports Night. Playing Casey McCall, Krause acted opposite Josh Charles’ Dan Rydell as best friends and co-anchors on the titular sports news broadcast. Immediately following the end of Sports Night, Krause joined Six Feet Under as Nate Fisher, a lead role he retained from 2001 to 2005. After leaving this drama, Krause starred in The Lost Room, which aired as a miniseries in 2006. Despite its limited run, Krause quickly moved on to his leading role of Nick George in Dirty Sexy Money, premiering in 2007.
Peter Krause turned down the role of Nick George three times before finally joining Dirty Sexy Money. From there, Krause landed some of his most memorable roles, starting with Adam Braverman in Parenthood, whom he portrayed from 2010 to 2015. Krause also made his directorial debut with three episodes of this series (season 3’s “Politics,” season 4’s “Small Victories,” and season 6’s “A Potpourri of Freaks”). Though he’s been a producer on many projects, Parenthood remains Krause’s only directing credit.
In 2016’s The Catch, Krause played against type as a con artist named Benjamin Jones until 2017. The unlikely character makes the underrated Shondaland series a good alternative show to 9-1-1, which he started a year later in 2018. Due to constantly bouncing back from canceled titles, Krause has been a series regular since 1998, or 27 consecutive years.
When a show decides to shake things up, it can either be brilliant—or a total disaster. And in the case of 9-1-1, the decision to kill off Bobby Nash might just fall into the latter. This bold (some would say reckless) move could not only destabilize the core of the show but also jeopardize Peter Krause’s recent hot streak in the industry. Let’s break down why this storyline twist feels like a punch to the gut—for fans, for the show, and especially for Krause.
Who Is Bobby Nash in 9-1-1?
The Emotional Backbone of the Series
From the very first episode, Bobby Nash has been more than just a fire captain. He’s been the heart, soul, and moral compass of 9-1-1. He’s led Station 118 with unwavering strength and compassion, balancing discipline with empathy.
Peter Krause’s Impactful Performance
Let’s be real—Peter Krause doesn’t just play Bobby. He is Bobby. His grounded and emotionally rich performance has earned him legions of fans. Krause brings a quiet intensity that made Bobby one of the most beloved characters on the show.
Why Killing Off Bobby Is a Risky Move
Alienating the Loyal Fanbase
Fans didn’t just watch 9-1-1 for the emergencies. They tuned in for the emotional connections—and Bobby was at the center of those. Removing him? That’s like removing the foundation of a house.
The Timing Feels Off
Krause has been riding a high with strong performances and continued relevance in TV drama. Removing his character now feels like pulling the rug out from under him during his prime.
Krause’s Career: The Hot Streak at Risk
A Resurgence in TV Stardom
Peter Krause has been a consistent force in TV since his Six Feet Under and Parenthood days. But 9-1-1 brought him back into the mainstream spotlight. He was peaking—again.
Cutting Momentum Short
By killing off Bobby, the writers may have inadvertently pressed pause—or worse, stop—on Krause’s return to the A-list. This wasn’t just a character death; it was a potential career speed bump.
Did The Writers Gamble Too Hard?
Trying to Shock or Trying Too Hard?
It’s no secret that TV writers love a good shock value moment. But is this shock worth the aftermath? Fans are outraged, critics are divided, and the buzz feels more bitter than sweet.
Jeopardizing Long-Term Story Arcs
Bobby’s storyline was rich with unresolved threads—his past, his faith, his relationship with Athena. Killing him now leaves so many stories untold.
Fan Reactions Speak Volumes
Social Media Meltdown
Twitter, Reddit, and Facebook are flooded with reactions. The common theme? “Why would they do this?” The grief is real, and the backlash is loud.
Petitions and Fan Campaigns
Yep, fans are already launching petitions to bring Bobby back. That’s how deep the love runs. When audiences go this hard for a character, it’s a sign the show may have messed up.
The Krause Effect: What Sets Him Apart
More Than Just a Leading Man
Peter Krause isn’t flashy—he’s soulful. He brings layers to every role, crafting nuanced, complex men that viewers connect with deeply. That’s rare.
A Fan Favorite for a Reason
His understated brilliance keeps viewers coming back. You don’t just watch a Krause character—you root for him, you feel him.
Could 9-1-1 Have Handled It Differently?
Character Evolution vs. Character Elimination
Instead of killing Bobby, why not evolve him? Let him retire. Let him mentor the next generation. There were so many options that didn’t involve death.
Shock Doesn’t Equal Smart
Shock value has an expiration date. Substance doesn’t. Writers may have sacrificed long-term substance for a short-term gasp.
Bobby’s Death: How It Affects the Plot
Ripple Effects Across the Cast
Athena’s arc is now hollow. The team dynamic is fractured. Every subplot that revolved around Bobby now feels incomplete.
A Sudden Shift in Tone
Without Bobby, 9-1-1 feels colder. His warmth balanced the chaos. Now, it’s just chaos—and not the entertaining kind.
Can the Show Survive Without Bobby?
Sure… But Should It?
Technically, the show could go on. But will fans follow? That’s the million-dollar question. And the answer might not be what the network wants to hear.
Leadership Vacuum at Station 118
Who steps in? And more importantly—who could possibly fill those shoes?
What’s Next for Peter Krause?
Opportunities Beyond 9-1-1
Krause is too talented to stay down. Whether it’s streaming dramas, Broadway, or a new network hit, doors will open. He’s not done yet.
This Could Spark a Career Pivot
Sometimes, exits create opportunity. Krause might take this moment to dive into film or return to prestige TV. He’s earned that shot.
What Fans Want Now
Closure, Not Confusion
If Bobby is really gone, fans need closure—emotionally and narratively. Give him a proper sendoff, not a rush job.
Justice for Bobby Nash
At the very least, give the character and the actor the respect they deserve. Bobby wasn’t just a name on a script. He was the soul of 9-1-1.
Lessons for Showrunners
Don’t Underestimate Your Leads
Characters like Bobby aren’t replaceable. Treating them like they are? That’s how shows lose their spark.
Balance Drama With Loyalty
Shocking moments are fine—but not at the cost of alienating your most dedicated fans. There’s a line. And 9-1-1 may have crossed it.
Why Bobby Meant So Much
A Rare Kind of Hero
Bobby wasn’t perfect—but that’s why we loved him. He was real. He struggled, he grew, and he led with heart. That’s the kind of hero TV needs more of.
Peter Krause Made Him Unforgettable
Actors like Krause don’t come along often. And when they do, you don’t kill off their best character mid-run. You celebrate it. You build on it.
Conclusion: A Risk That Could Backfire
In the world of TV, big risks sometimes lead to big rewards. But this one? Killing Bobby might just be a misstep that haunts 9-1-1 for seasons to come. Peter Krause brought gravitas, warmth, and authenticity to a role that became the heartbeat of the show.
Losing Bobby isn’t just losing a character—it’s losing a legacy.
