American actor whose career spans film and television, marked by diverse and complex roles. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, he began performing after working various jobs, transitioning from early film appearances in the 1980s to critically acclaimed roles in Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989). Spader gained wider recognition for his portrayal of attorney Alan Shore in The Practice and Boston Legal, earning three Emmy Awards and multiple nominations, as well as Golden Globe and Screen Actors Guild recognition. His career emphasizes character depth, narrative engagement, and sustained versatility across mediums.