Fred Graham, "Petruchio" — Kiss Me Kate Character Profile

About Fred Graham, "Petruchio"

The director and male lead of the musical adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew. He navigates complex romantic tensions with his ex-wife Lilli and assistant Lois, while covering up a gambling debt signed by Bill. Ultimately reconciles with Lilli on stage.

Character Facts

Played by

Howard Keel

Appears in

Kiss Me Kate (1953)

Role

Supporting

More characters from Kiss Me Kate

• Lilli Vanessi, "Katherine" (Kathryn Grayson)
• Lois Lane, "Bianca" (Ann Miller)
• Lippy (Keenan Wynn)
• Bill Calhoun, "Lucentio" (Tommy Rall)
• "Gremio" (Bobby Van)
• Slug (James Whitmore)
• "Baptista" (Kurt Kasznar)
• "Hortensio" (Bob Fosse)
• Cole Porter (Ron Randell)
• Tex Callaway (Willard Parker)
• Ralph (Dave O'Brien)
• Gregory (uncredited) (David Bair)