Nate Bargatze, the renowned actor and comedian, has shared insights into his decision to relocate from Los Angeles back to his roots in Nashville, Tennessee, around a decade ago. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE magazine, the 46-year-old comedian revealed that the move was primarily motivated by his desire to provide a stable upbringing for his daughter, Harper, who is now 13 years old.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Nate-Bargatze-Daughter-Harper-091225-9c4532d29a2146ab8493617b3106989e.jpg)
Reflecting on his move, Bargatze noted that he wanted to ensure Harper experienced a “normal” childhood, free from the pressures of the entertainment industry. “We live in a great neighbourhood, a cul-de-sac where the residents have jobs outside showbiz,” he explained. This environment, he believes, has allowed his daughter to cultivate friendships based on authenticity rather than fame.
Bargatze has been vocal about his intention to shield Harper from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. He stated, “Everything that she is around now is regular life. She’s going to school and living a typical existence.” Although Harper is aware of her father’s career, even introducing him at his comedy specials, he is keen for her to forge her own path should she choose to enter the entertainment world, much like her grandfather, magician Stephen Bargatze.
In a previous conversation with WSMV 4 Nashville in February, Bargatze reiterated that providing Harper with some semblance of normality was central to his decision to move. He remarked, “A big part of me wanting to come back was for [Harper] to at least have somewhat of a regular existence,” emphasising that her friends are genuine, everyday people he himself would have known growing up.
Nashville, according to Bargatze, provides a unique balance between being close to the entertainment industry and maintaining a normal life for his family. He feels this environment helps to keep everything grounded despite the chaos of his comedic career.
Harper is the couple’s only child, born in July 2012, and Bargatze has often opted to keep details of their family life low-key while his career gains momentum. He has previously expressed his desire to allow Harper the freedom to grow independently, stating, “I want her to be her own person.” His priority is fostering an open line of communication between them, ensuring that Harper feels safe discussing anything without fear of it becoming public knowledge.
The comedian also mentioned how the strong bond between him and Harper has been bolstered by their decision to raise just one child. During an episode of The Nateland Podcast in 2020, he remarked, “I have a relationship with her that I would have had to split up between two kids.” This singular focus allows him and his wife, Laura, to dedicate their time entirely to Harper, fostering a deep connection with their daughter.
Interestingly, Harper has developed a discerning taste when it comes to her father’s comedy. During an appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Bargatze revealed that while his daughter may not find his stand-up routines particularly hilarious, she appreciates his performances in other contexts. Harper has even remarked, in a Netflix video, that she believes she is “way funnier” than her dad and has voiced her opinions on some of his jokes related to her—suggesting they should be removed from his act.
Bargatze’s career continues to flourish, evident from his recent hosting role on the ABC game show, The Greatest Average American, which debuted in February 2025. The show reflects his comedic style and offers viewers a glimpse of his family-oriented approach.
The balance Bargatze strikes between his professional life and parenting is evident in his thoughtful approach to family life. As he continues to navigate his career, his commitment to providing Harper with a well-rounded, average upbringing remains a cornerstone of his ethos as both a parent and a comedian.