Long-term Hollywood marriages are rare, yet AJ Cook and her husband, Nathan Andersen, have quietly built a lasting life together away from constant tabloid drama. While Cook is widely recognized for playing Jennifer "JJ" Jareau on the CBS crime procedural Criminal Minds, her personal life tells a grounded story of youth, loyalty, and partnership.
They met as teenagers in a college film class in Utah. Decades later, they're still together, raising two sons and supporting each other through major personal hurdles, including a cancer battle. Their relationship offers a rare look at how stability survives under the Hollywood spotlight.
How AJ Cook and Nathan Andersen Met
The story of AJ Cook and Nathan Andersen began in a film class at Utah Valley University. Cook has often described their introduction in interviews as an instant, cinematic moment where they locked eyes across the room and felt an immediate connection. Andersen went straight back to his dorm and told his roommate that he had just met the woman he was going to marry.
They were teenagers at the time. Instead of parting ways when college ended or when Cook's acting career began to take off, they chose to build a foundation early. Cook eventually relocated to Salt Lake City to bridge the distance, and the pair tied the knot on August 3, 2001. Long before Cook became a television star, Andersen was already part of her everyday world.
Building a Life Behind the Headlines
Unlike many high-profile couples who court constant media attention, Cook and Andersen maintain a remarkably quiet domestic life in Los Angeles. They don't rely on manufactured publicity stunts or frequent red-carpet appearances to validate their relationship. Instead, their public footprint consists mostly of warm anniversary tributes and glimpses into family adventures shared on social media.
Andersen pursued a path outside of mainstream acting. He worked in the fashion and apparel space, founding the technical clothing line Walter Sky. Balancing a demanding network television schedule with an entrepreneurial venture requires a strong division of labor at home. Cook has frequently credited her husband's steady presence as the anchor that keeps their family grounded when production schedules get chaotic.
Raising a Family and On-Screen Cameos
The couple shares two sons, Mekhai Allan and Phoenix Sky. Both boys became part of Criminal Minds history through organic family casting choices.
- Mekhai Allan Andersen: Born in September 2008, Mekhai was introduced to viewers as Henry LaMontagne, the oldest son of Cook's character on the show.
- Phoenix Sky Andersen: Born in July 2015, Phoenix later appeared on screen as Michael LaMontagne, completing the fictional family tree with real family members.
Integrating their children into select episodes allowed Cook to balance grueling working hours with motherhood, turning professional sets into a family-friendly environment.
Overcoming Hardships Together: Health and Loyalty
True loyalty shows up during crises, and the couple faced a severe test when Andersen was diagnosed with cancer. They navigated the diagnosis and treatment privately before Cook shared the news that her husband was cancer-free.
Cook marked the milestone with public gratitude, highlighting how adversity only reinforced their bond. In interviews reflecting on long-term relationships, she often emphasizes that a lasting marriage isn't about avoiding conflict, but about staying anchored to each other when things get ugly. You can read more about her career trajectory and life philosophy in this profile on Our South Bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did AJ Cook and Nathan Andersen get married?
They married on August 3, 2001, after dating for several years following their meeting in college.
What does Nathan Andersen do for a living?
He is an entrepreneur and fashion designer who founded the technical apparel brand Walter Sky. He is also an avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast.
Did Nathan Andersen ever appear on Criminal Minds?
While Nathan didn't act on the show, both of his sons—Mekhai and Phoenix—played JJ's television children across various seasons of CBS.
How long have they been together overall?
Since meeting as teenagers in the late 1990s, they have spent well over two decades together as a couple.
