james spader, long hailed as one of the greatest actors of his generation, turns 65 this year. known for his magnetic performances in film and television, spader has built a career spanning decades, genres, and emotional depth.
born in boston to a family of teachers, he left school at 17 to pursue acting in new york city, supporting himself through various jobs including bartending, driving, and teaching yoga. his yoga practice led to meeting his wife, victoria kheel, with whom he has two sons.
spader’s breakout came in 1986 as the wealthy antagonist steff in pretty in pink, followed by acclaimed roles in sex, lies, and videotape (cannes best actor) and white palace. fans admire him not only for his talent but for his quiet, disciplined off-screen life, which keeps him almost entirely disconnected from modern technology.
