The actor took on a starring role in the widely acclaimed HBO drama "Six Feet Under" (2001-2005), portraying the Job-like Nate Fisher, the somewhat free-spirited prodigal son who returns to his family home and funeral business just in time for his father's accidental death. As the show progressed and Nate was increasingly plagued by the demons of his frustrated life, Krause was able to demonstrate the full range of his rich dramatic talents, and was rewarded with multiple Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG nominations for his work. In the sshow's final season, the producers and Krause shocked loyal fans when Nate was unexpectedly killed off several episodes before the series finale (though Krause continued to reappear as one of the show's signature ghostly visions).
In 2004, the actor branched out into feature films with the indie drama "We Don't Live Here Anymore," playing part of a pair of suburban, academic couples who self-destrcutively engage in extramarital affairs with the neighboring spouses.
Off the success of his television roles, Krause also made his Broadway debut playing Quentin in the Roundabout Theatre Company's revival of Arthur Miller's play "After the Fall" in the summer of 2004.