James Spader

James Todd Spader (pronounced SPAY-dər; born February 7, 1960) is an American actor known for often portraying eccentric and morally ambiguous characters. He began his career in critically acclaimed independent films before successfully transitioning into television, where he has received notable acclaim and numerous awards.

Career and Filmography

Spader began acting in youth-oriented films such as *Tuff Turf*, *The New Kids* (both 1985), *Pretty in Pink* (1986), and *Mannequin* (1987). His breakthrough role came with the Steven Soderbergh drama *Sex, Lies, and Videotape* (1989), for which he received the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor. Following this success, he starred in films such as *White Palace* (1990), *True Colors* (1991), *Stargate* (1994), *2 Days in the Valley* (1996), and *Secretary* (2002).

In his supporting film roles, he appeared in *Bob Roberts* (1992), *Wolf* (1994), *Lincoln* (2012), and *The Homesman* (2014). He also played the role of Ultron in the Marvel Cinematic Universe film *Avengers: Age of Ultron* (2015).

His television career included portraying the attorney Alan Shore in the final season of *The Practice* (2003–2004) and its spin-off *Boston Legal* (2004–2008). This role led to him earning three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series. He portrayed Robert California in the sitcom *The Office* (2011–2012). He later starred as Raymond Reddington in the NBC crime thriller series *The Blacklist* (2013–2023).

Accolades and Awards

Overall, Spader's career has earned him recognition including three Primetime Emmy Awards and nominations for three Golden Globe Awards, alongside ten Screen Actors Guild Awards. His work in *Boston Legal* earned him three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series, and his portrayal in *The Blacklist* garnered him two Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Actor – Television Series Drama.