James Spader is best known for playing Raymond Reddington in The Blacklist, Alan Shore in Boston Legal, and Robert California in The Office.
Films
- Avengers: Age of UltronUltron (voice)2015
- The HomesmanAloysius Duffy2014
- LincolnWilliam N. Bilbo2012
- ShortbusJames2006
- SecretaryMr. Grey2002
- SupernovaDr. Nick Vanzant2000
- CrashJames Ballard1996
- StargateDr. Daniel Jackson1994
- WolfStewart Swinton1994
- Sex, Lies, and VideotapeGraham Dalton1989
- Less Than ZeroRip1987
- Pretty in PinkSteff1986
- Tuff TurfMorgan Hiller1985
- The New KidsEddie ‘Dutra’ Dutra1985
- Endless LoveKeith Butterfield1981
TV shows
- The BlacklistRaymond Reddington2013–2023
- The OfficeRobert California2011–2012
- Boston LegalAlan Shore2004–2008
- The PracticeAlan Shore2003–2004
- The Pentagon WarsColonel James G. Burton1998
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About James Spader
James Spader is an American actor known for his distinctive voice and intense, often eccentric performances. He rose to fame in the 1980s with roles in films like Pretty in Pink and Sex, Lies, and Videotape, and later won three Emmy Awards for his television work, notably on The Practice and Boston Legal.
FAQs
How many Emmy Awards has James Spader won?
James Spader has won three Primetime Emmy Awards: two for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Boston Legal (2005, 2007) and one for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series for The Practice (2004).
What is James Spader’s most famous role?
His most famous role is arguably Raymond ‘Red’ Reddington in the NBC series The Blacklist, which ran for ten seasons from 2013 to 2023.
Did James Spader voice a character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe?
Yes, he voiced the villain Ultron in Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) and reprised the role in the Disney+ series What If…? (2021).
What was James Spader’s breakthrough film role?
His breakthrough came with the 1989 independent film Sex, Lies, and Videotape, directed by Steven Soderbergh, which won the Palme d’Or at Cannes and earned Spader critical acclaim.
Is James Spader related to any other actors?
Yes, his brother-in-law is actor John Glover, and his father was a teacher, but he is not directly related to any other major actors.
Sources & where to watch: IMDb · Wikipedia · Where to watch (JustWatch UK) · Updated June 2026