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John Spencer

Acting

Born December 20, 1946 · New York City, New York, USA

Died December 16, 2005

Also known as John Speshock Jr.

Biography

John Spencer (December 20, 1946 – December 16, 2005) was an American actor. He first gained recognition for his captivating performances on Broadway, particularly in The Great White Hope (1969). Spencer transitioned to film, showcasing his versatility in movies like The Rock (1996) and The Negotiator (1998). On television, Spencer had one of his first on-screen roles in The Patty Duke Show, and later became known as a main cast member on L.A. Law starting in its fifth season. His portrayal of White House Chief of Staff Leo McGarry on The West Wing (1999-2006) brought widespread acclaim, earning him five Emmy Award nominations, including a win in 2002. Spencer passed away on December 16, 2005, at the age of 58.

Awards & recognition

  • Primetime Emmy AwardOutstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series · 2002
  • Screen Actors Guild AwardOutstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series · 2002
  • Screen Actors Guild AwardOutstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series · 2001
  • Screen Actors Guild AwardOutstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series · 2006 · nominated
  • Screen Actors Guild AwardOutstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series · 2005 · nominated
Show all 14 awards →
  • Primetime Emmy AwardOutstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series · 2004 · nominated
  • Screen Actors Guild AwardOutstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series · 2004 · nominated
  • Primetime Emmy AwardOutstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series · 2003 · nominated
  • Screen Actors Guild AwardOutstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series · 2003 · nominated
  • Primetime Emmy AwardOutstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series · 2002 · nominated
  • Screen Actors Guild AwardOutstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series · 2002 · nominated
  • Primetime Emmy AwardOutstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series · 2001 · nominated
  • Screen Actors Guild AwardOutstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series · 2001 · nominated
  • Primetime Emmy AwardOutstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series · 2000 · nominated

Filmography31 titles

The West Wing

1999as Leo McGarry

The Outer Limits

1995as Col. Wallis Thurman

Miami Vice

1984as Lt. Lee Atkins

The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson

1962as Self

Law & Order

1990as Howard Morton

The Rock

1996as FBI Director James Womack

Touched by an Angel

1994as Leo

The Negotiator

1998as Chief Al Travis

L.A. Law

1986as Tommy Mullaney

WarGames

1983as Jerry

Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman

1993as Mr. Gadget

Spenser: For Hire

1985as Joe Moran

Saturday Night Live

1975as Self - Cameo (uncredited)

Ravenous

1999as General Slauson

Cop Land

1997as Leo Crasky

Presumed Innocent

1990as Detective Dan Lipranzer

Sea of Love

1989as Lieutenant

Black Rain

1989as Oliver

Forget Paris

1995as Jack

The Patty Duke Show

1963as Henry

Twilight

1998as Capt. Phil Egan

Green Card

1990as Harry

The Protector

1985as Ko's Pilot

Albino Alligator

1996as Jack

Hiding Out

1987as Bakey

The Ellen DeGeneres Show

2003as Self

All Revved Up

1998as Bill Gunter

Far from Home

1989as TV Preacher

In the Arms of a Killer

1992as Det. Vincent Cusack

The View

1997as Self

From the Files of Joseph Wambaugh: A Jury of One

1992as Det. Mike Mulick