John Spencer

John Spencer (December 20, 1946 – December 16, 2005) was an American actor known for his roles in various TV shows. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Leo McGarry on the NBC political drama series The West Wing and as attorney Tommy Mullaney in L.A. Law. In 2002, Spencer won a Primetime Emmy Award for his performance on The West Wing. Born as John Speshock Jr. in New York City, he grew up in Totowa, New Jersey. Spencer's parents, Mildred and John Speshock Sr., were blue-collar workers. Despite their disappointment, he pursued acting and attended the Professional Children's School in Manhattan. Spencer briefly attended Fairleigh Dickinson University before leaving to focus on his acting career.