Craig T Nelson Wife: Who Is He Married To? (2026)

By NetWorthTelevision — Updated October 2026

Craig T. Nelson is married to Doria Cook-Nelson, a freelance writer, karate instructor, tai chi teacher, and former actress. The couple tied the knot in 1987 and have been married for nearly four decades as of 2026. Nelson was previously married to Robin McCarthy from 1965 to 1978, and he has three children from that first marriage.

Who Is Doria Cook-Nelson?

Doria Cook-Nelson is best known as the wife of actor Craig T. Nelson. She is a freelance writer, karate instructor, tai chi teacher, and former actress who appeared in films including The Parallax View (1974), Mame (1974), and The Swarm (1978). Nelson has described her as "quirky and so funny," and praised her as compassionate and his best friend. He has joked in interviews, "When you are married to a karate black belt, you don't wait to be asked to make dinner and take out the garbage." She is stepmother to his three children.

Marriage Timeline

Craig T. Nelson married his first wife, Robin McCarthy, in 1965. The marriage ended in divorce in 1978 after 13 years. He later dated Doria Cook for several years before the two married in a private ceremony with close friends and family in 1987. The couple has been together for more than 39 years, with no signs of separation. Nelson also owns a house in Malibu purchased back in 1985, which he has maintained alongside his family life.

Children

Craig T. Nelson has three children from his first marriage to Robin McCarthy: daughter Tiffany Nelson (born 1966), son Christopher Nelson (born 1968), and son Noah Nelson (born 1975). Noah Nelson followed in the industry as a writer and producer, with credits on CSI: NY, Hawaii Five-0, Secrets and Lies, and The Oath. Doria Cook-Nelson has no biological children of her own and is stepmother to the three. Nelson has described himself as the first person his children want to talk to about things, saying, "We have a good time."

Career Highlights

Craig Theodore Nelson was born April 4, 1944, in Spokane, Washington. He started as a stand-up comedian and writer in the late 1960s at The Comedy Store and with The Groundlings, then transitioned to acting in the 1970s. He gained prominence as Steve Freeling in Poltergeist (1982) and starred as Hayden Fox in Coach (1989–1997), winning an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series. He voiced Bob Parr/Mr. Incredible in The Incredibles (2004) and Incredibles 2 (2018). Other major roles include Chief Jack Mannion in The District (2000–2004), Zeek Braverman in Parenthood (2010–2015), and Dale Ballard in Young Sheldon (2019–2024) and Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage. His career spans over 100 credits across film, television, and voice work.

FAQ

Who is Craig T. Nelson's wife?

His wife is Doria Cook-Nelson, a freelance writer, karate instructor, tai chi teacher, and former actress. They have been married since 1987.

Was Craig T. Nelson married before?

Yes. He was married to Robin McCarthy from 1965 to 1978. They divorced after 13 years of marriage.

How many children does Craig T. Nelson have?

Three: daughter Tiffany and sons Christopher and Noah, all from his first marriage. He has no biological children with Doria Cook-Nelson.

What is Craig T. Nelson known for?

He is best known for Coach (Emmy winner), Poltergeist, voicing Mr. Incredible in The Incredibles, The District, Parenthood, and Young Sheldon.

Does Craig T. Nelson have social media?

No public information indicates he has social media accounts; he maintains a private family life.