Born in Boston to a family of educators, Spader seemed destined for an academic future, but at 17 he left Phillips Academy and moved to New York to pursue acting. He supported himself with odd jobs, including driving trucks, bartending, loading railroad cars, and even teaching yoga. Through yoga, he met Victoria Kheel, who later became his wife and the mother of his two eldest sons.

Spader’s career took off in the 1980s, especially after his memorable role as Steff in Pretty in Pink. He soon earned international acclaim — and the Best Actor award at Cannes — for Sex, Lies, and Videotape, proving his talent went far beyond teen films. Many viewers later came to know him as Alan Shore in The Practice and Boston Legal, roles that earned him three Emmy Awards.

Despite his success, Spader has always guarded his personal life. After his divorce from Victoria in 2004, he built a quiet life with actress and sculptor Leslie Stefanson, with whom he shares a son. Even today, he remains a rare Hollywood figure who chooses depth, discipline, and privacy over fame.