Biography
Who is James Spader?
Early life and real name
James Spader Todd Spader was born in Boston, Massachusetts, on February 7, 1960. He grew up as the youngest of three children in a family of teachers, spending parts of his childhood near Andover and Marion, Massachusetts. During his youth, James attended several private educational institutions, including The Pike School and Phillips Academy, before leaving school at the age of seventeen to move to New York City and pursue an acting career.
While working to establish himself as a professional performer, James took on various odd jobs in New York. He worked as a yoga instructor, a bartender, a stable boy, and a delivery driver for a meat truck. These early experiences shaped his work ethic before he landed his first major film role in the early 1980s.
How James became famous
James first appeared in youth-oriented cinema during the mid-1980s, earning notice for his performance as the arrogant rich character Steff in the romantic comedy Pretty in Pink. His career reached a turning point when he starred in Steven Soderbergh's independent drama Sex, Lies, and Videotape. His complex portrayal of a sexual voyeur earned him critical acclaim and the Best Actor Award at the Cannes Film Festival, establishing him as a prominent cinematic talent.
Following this breakthrough, James secured prominent parts in a wide variety of studio and independent productions throughout the 1990s. He appeared in the romantic drama White Palace opposite Susan Sarandon, portrayed an Egyptologist in the science fiction adventure Stargate, and took on a controversial role in the Canadian drama Crash directed by David Cronenberg.
Career highlights and television success
In addition to his film work, James achieved major success in television. He joined the cast of the legal drama The Practice and subsequently starred as the brilliant attorney Alan Shore in its spin-off series Boston Legal. This television role brought him three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, cementing his reputation as a powerhouse television performer.
Later in his career, James continued to take on famous roles on the small screen. He portrayed the corporate manager Robert California in the popular sitcom The Office and later starred as the fugitive Raymond Reddington in the long-running NBC crime thriller series The Blacklist. He also entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe by voicing the robotic villain Ultron in Avengers: Age of Ultron.
Family and relationships
James met decorator Victoria Kheel in New York City during the 1980s while she was employed at a yoga studio. The couple married in 1987 and raised two sons together before filing for divorce. Later, James began a relationship with actress Leslie Stefanson, with whom he shares a son.
Birthday and age
James Spader was born on February 7, 1960, which makes James 66 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aquarius sign. James shares the date with 63 other famous people.
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