For fans of hit shows like Yellowjackets and The Originals, actor Steven Krueger has become a familiar face, but his life off-screen has often remained a subject of private speculation. The pressing question for many viewers—"Who is Steven Krueger dating?"—now has a definitive and happy answer: the actor is not dating, but is in fact engaged to be married. Krueger is in a committed relationship with fellow actor Candice King, best known for her iconic role in The Vampire Diaries, with the couple confirming their engagement in late 2023 after navigating a quiet, low-profile romance. Their relationship marks a delightful intersection for fans of two of television's most popular supernatural dramas.
A Private Romance Made Public
The relationship between Steven Krueger and Candice King came as a welcome surprise to many of their followers. While both actors have existed in the same professional circles for years, particularly within the universe created by Julie Plec (The Vampire Diaries and its spinoff, The Originals), they successfully kept the early stages of their romance out of the public eye. This discretion is characteristic of Krueger, who has historically maintained a clear boundary between his public career and his personal life.
Candice King, who portrayed the beloved character Caroline Forbes for eight seasons on The Vampire Diaries and made guest appearances on The Originals, was previously married to musician Joe King of The Fray. Following her divorce in 2022, she also maintained a degree of privacy regarding her personal life. The first public confirmation of her relationship with Krueger came through their heartwarming engagement announcement, which delighted fans who appreciate their seemingly down-to-earth approach to a Hollywood romance.
The Proposal and Engagement Announcement
In December 2023, the couple took to social media to share their joyous news. Candice King posted a series of photos on Instagram showcasing a romantic moment on a wooden bridge, with Krueger on one knee. Her caption playfully referenced a famous line from the sitcom The Office, stating, "That's what she said." The post immediately garnered a flood of congratulatory messages from friends, co-stars, and fans alike.
The announcement was celebrated by many of their colleagues from the entertainment industry. Comments poured in from "Vampire Diaries Universe" alumni like Nina Dobrev, Claire Holt, and Kayla Ewell, as well as Krueger's co-stars from Yellowjackets. The overwhelming positivity highlighted the couple's respected standing within their professional community. The engagement solidified their status as a couple, moving the public question from "who are they dating?" to "when is the wedding?"
Steven Krueger's Rise to Fame
To understand the public's interest in Krueger's personal life, one must look at his steadily rising career trajectory. Born in Appleton, Wisconsin, and raised in Sarasota, Florida, Krueger moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. He landed a series of guest roles on popular shows like Pretty Little Liars, Workaholics, and Two and a Half Men before securing his breakout role.
His big break came when he was cast as Josh Rosza in The Originals, the spinoff to The Vampire Diaries. Initially a recurring character, Josh quickly became a fan favorite due to his loyalty, wit, and relatable human-turned-vampire storyline. Krueger's performance earned him a promotion to a series regular, and he remained a core part of the show until its conclusion in 2018. More recently, Krueger has gained critical acclaim for his role as Coach Ben Scott in the Showtime thriller series Yellowjackets. His portrayal of the complex, morally ambiguous character has showcased his dramatic range and introduced him to a new, wider audience.
Candice King: An Enduring Fan Favorite
Candice King (née Accola) has been a prominent figure in television for over a decade. Her role as Caroline Forbes in The Vampire Diaries is one of the most celebrated character arcs in modern teen drama. Over eight seasons, Caroline evolved from a seemingly shallow and insecure teenager into a strong, compassionate, and powerful vampire, a journey that resonated deeply with viewers. Her performance was a cornerstone of the show's success.
Beyond her acting career, King is also a co-host of the popular podcast Directionally Challenged, where she and co-host Kayla Ewell discuss navigating life's twists and turns. Her openness on the podcast has allowed her to connect with her audience on a more personal level, making her a relatable and admired public figure. Her relationship with Krueger brings together two actors who have not only achieved significant professional success but have also cultivated loyal and engaged fanbases.
Navigating the Spotlight Together
Since announcing their engagement, Steven Krueger and Candice King have offered small glimpses into their life together, striking a balance between public celebration and private intimacy. They appear to share a love for travel and simple, joyful moments, as seen in the photos shared from their engagement. Their approach differs from many celebrity couples who live their entire relationship in the public eye. Instead, Krueger and King seem to prefer sharing specific, meaningful milestones while keeping their day-to-day life to themselves.
This method has been well-received by their followers, who respect their desire for privacy. The fan reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing joy that two beloved actors from a shared television universe found happiness together. Their story serves as a reminder that even in the high-pressure environment of Hollywood, genuine connections can be formed and nurtured away from the constant glare of the cameras.
In summary, the question of who Steven Krueger is dating is settled. He is happily engaged to Candice King, and their relationship appears to be built on a foundation of mutual respect and a shared understanding of life in the public eye. While they remain focused on their successful acting careers—Krueger with Yellowjackets and King with her various projects—their supporters are eagerly and respectfully awaiting news of their upcoming wedding. Their journey together represents a new chapter, both personally and professionally, for two of television's most talented actors.
