Will Chase

Will Chase, born Frank William Chase on September 12, 1970, in Frankfort, Kentucky, developed his foundational skills in music and acting from an early age. He received his degree from the Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Oberlin, Ohio, where he trained as a percussionist, conductor, and actor, studying under esteemed individuals such as Robert Spano and Michael Rosen. His early career began in Chicago, where he performed in regional theater productions and received three Joseph Jefferson Award nominations. Chase made his Broadway debut in 1998 in “Rent,” initially as an ensemble member and understudy before taking on the role of Roger, a performance that was later captured in “Rent: Filmed Live on Broadway.” His early Broadway engagements also included roles in “Miss Saigon,” “The Full Monty,” “Aida,” and “Lennon,” demonstrating his breadth in musical theater.

Throughout his career, Chase has transitioned across various mediums, establishing himself as a recognizable face and voice. On television, he was widely known for his role as country star Luke Wheeler on ABC’s “Nashville” (2013–2017), appearing in 57 episodes. Other significant television roles include recurring appearances on Netflix’s “Stranger Things” (2017–2019) as Neil Hargrove, HBO’s “Sharp Objects” (2018) as Bob Nash, FX’s “American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace” (2018) as Detective Paul Scrimshaw, and Michael Swift on NBC’s “Smash” (2012–2013). More recently, he was seen opposite Tom Holland in the Apple TV+ limited series “The Crowded Room” (2023) as Marlin Reid and in Hulu’s “Dopesick” (2021) as Michael Friedman. His film credits include “After the Wedding” (2019) and “Butterflies of Bill Baker” (2013), for which he won Best Actor at the Chain NYC Film Festival.

Beyond acting, Chase has expanded his creative pursuits into directing and producing. His documentary “Coming Home: The Guggenheim Grotto Back In Ireland” (2025) won Best Short Film at the LIMEHOF Music Documentary Film Festival and Best Director of a Documentary at the Chain Film Festival. He also directed and wrote the short films “Dagger” (2021) and “Trunk Show” (2021), the latter winning Best Short Film at the Ridgewood Guild International Film Festival. On Broadway, he earned a 2013 Tony Award Nomination and Outer Critics Circle Award Nomination for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of John Jasper in “The Mystery of Edwin Drood.” He has also performed with renowned musical groups like the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall and the Grand Ole Opry, showcasing his musical talents beyond theatrical productions.