In following his dreams, James moved to New York City. Before he hit it big as an actor, he held down less glamorous jobs to pay the rent including busing tables, shoveling manure, and teaching yoga.
While working in the yoga studio, James met his future wife Victoria. She often accompanied him on set and they enjoyed frequently traveling. The couple married in 1987 and they have two sons together, Sebastian and Elijah. In 2004, the couple split, finalizing their divorce.
Spader’s first memorable film was Pretty in Pink in 1986, which co-starred Molly Ringwald, Andrew McCarthy, and Jon Cryer. In the film, Spader played an upper class sleazy yuppie. Like most Brat Pack films during that time, this one was also a popular success and helped to open the doors for Spader in the acting business.
Spader's next memorable film, and probably the film he is best known for, was Sex, Lies, and Videotape in 1989. The film co-starred Andie MacDowell and Peter Gallagher, and Spader's wife was also the set designer on the film. The film was an artistic and commercial success. It was well received at the Cannes Film Festival with Spader receiving an award for Best Actor. At the Sundance Film Festival, the Sex, Lies, and Videotape won the Audience award.
Other notable film projects Spader has contributed to include Stargate in 1994, co-starring Kurt Russell and French Stewart, and Secretary in 2002, co-starring Maggie Gyllenhaal.
Besides working on interesting film projects, Spader has had plenty of success in television. He has had recurring roles playing the same character on both Boston Public and The Practice. He has also won Emmys for his roles on each show in subsequent years. He is the only actor ever to have accomplished such a feat.
Spader prefers maintaining his private life rather than achieving huge mainstream success. He has said in interviews that he only takes on a film project when he needs the money. Instead of working all the time, James prefers to travel, read, and spend time with his family. This has limited the number of films he has done, but he says that he can look back on his work and be proud of the characters he has played.
YUDDY
