James Marsters life and biography

James Marsters is an American actor and musician. Marsters first came to the attention of the general public playing the popular character Spike, a platinum-blond English vampire in the television series Buffy the Vampire Slayer and its spin-off series, Angel from 1997 to 2004. Since then, he has gone on to play other science fiction roles, such as the alien supervillain Brainiac on the Superman-inspired series Smallville, the omnisexual time traveller Captain John Hart in British science-fiction show Torchwood and terrorist Barnabas Greeley in Syfy's Caprica. In 2007, Marsters appeared in a supporting role in the mainstream movie P.S. I Love You and as the main antagonist, Piccolo, in the 2009 fantasy adventure film Dragonball Evolution.

Marsters was born in Greenville, California, the son of a former minister and social worker. He grew up with his brother, Paul, and sister, Susan, in Modesto, California. Dreaming about becoming an actor since he played Eeyore in Winnie the Pooh in fourth grade, Marsters joined the theater group at Grace M. Davis High School acting in many plays including musicals. After graduation, Marsters studied at the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts, 1980–1982, and Juilliard School, 1982–1984.

After spending ten years doing stage work he finally moved to L.A. to pursue a career in film and television. After appearing in several guest roles he finally got his big break as Spike in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" (1997). Originally the character was suppose to be killed after a few episodes but Spike became so popular that he became a regular on the show. After the show ended he appeared as Spike in the spin-off "Angel" (1999) and in several movies. James is also a talented musician; his band Ghost of the Robot released their first album, Mad Brilliant.

Filmography:

2010: Caprica; Hawaii Five-0; Three Inches

Awards and nominations:

2001: Won, "Best Performance by a Supporting Actor in a Series - Drama" - Buffy the Vampire Slayer
2002: Won, "Cinescape Genre Face of the Future Award" - Buffy the Vampire Slayer
2003: Won, "Best Performance by a Supporting Actor in a Series - Drama" - Buffy the Vampire Slayer

SFX Awards, UK:

2002: Won, "Best Comedy Performance" - Buffy the Vampire Slayer
2002: Won, "Best TV Actor" - Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Spacey Awards, Canada:

2004: Won, "Viewers Choice Award - Favourite TV Character - Male" - "Spike from Angel"

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