When fans watch Andrea Joy Cook—best known as Jennifer "JJ" Jareau on the CBS crime drama Criminal Minds—solve complex cases on screen, many wonder about the life she shares off-camera. Behind her decades-long acting career stands her husband, Nathan Andersen. Far from chasing Hollywood fame, Andersen has carved out his own path as a businessman and fashion designer, maintaining a grounded household while supporting a high-profile partner.
Their relationship predates prime-time television, Hollywood red carpets, and widespread public recognition. Understanding who Nathan Andersen is requires looking past basic celebrity spouse trivia to explore how a quiet partnership survives the pressures of the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Education at Utah Valley University
Nathan Andersen was born on May 25, 1978. While details about his childhood and immediate family remain private, his educational path is well-documented. He attended Utah Valley University, where he studied film.
It was during these college years that his path crossed with AJ Cook. Both attended the same institution, and they officially met inside a film class. What started as a collegiate friendship turned into a long-term commitment. When Cook relocated to Salt Lake City to pursue her goals, their bond deepened. The couple married on August 3, 2001, just as Cook's professional acting career began to gain traction.
Transitioning From Film to Entrepreneurship
Many spouses of actors try their hand at acting or producing, but Andersen took a different route. After exploring the entertainment industry, he realized his true strengths lay in commerce and operations rather than film production.
He shifted focus toward business and fashion. Over the years, Andersen dedicated a decade to building and scaling a startup alongside a business partner. This entrepreneurial foundation eventually led him to co-found Walter Sky, an apparel line focused on functional, technical everyday wear, alongside his brother. Walter Sky emphasizes minimalist design and performance materials, reflecting Andersen's personal passion for outdoor adventure and practical utility.
Building a Family Out of the Spotlight
The couple shares two sons, Mekhai Allan and Phoenix Sky. Family life remains a central focus for both Andersen and Cook, who split their time between professional commitments and raising their children in Los Angeles.
Uniquely, their eldest son Mekhai even shared screen time with his mother on Criminal Minds, playing Henry LaMontagne across multiple episodes. Despite these brief family cameos, Andersen and Cook have maintained strict boundaries regarding their private lives, shielding their children from invasive media attention while sharing occasional glimpses of family travel and milestones on social media.
Overcoming Health Challenges Together
Every long-term marriage faces unexpected tests, and the couple encountered a major trial when Andersen faced a serious health scare. In late 2019, public attention turned toward Andersen's well-being after Cook shared a heartfelt post celebrating his recovery from cancer.
Though the family kept the specific details of the diagnosis private, Cook's public message highlighted the resilience required to navigate a life-threatening illness. Coming out the other side of that battle strengthened an already enduring partnership, proving that their bond extends far beyond red-carpet appearances.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did AJ Cook and Nathan Andersen get married?
They tied the knot on August 3, 2001, after meeting years earlier in a college film class.
What is Nathan Andersen's profession?
He is an entrepreneur and fashion designer, best known as a co-founder of the apparel brand Walter Sky.
Do they have children?
Yes, they share two sons named Mekhai Allan and Phoenix Sky.
Did Nathan Andersen appear on Criminal Minds?
No, Andersen works behind the scenes as a businessman, though their eldest son Mekhai played JJ's on-screen son Henry in several episodes.
