John Spencer was a notable American actor, best known for his role as Leo McGarry on the television series The West Wing. Born on December 20, 1946, in Kansas City, Missouri, he had a successful career in both film and television, appearing in various productions throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Spencer's performances were often characterized by his strong presence and ability to convey deep emotion. In addition to his work on The West Wing, Spencer appeared in films such as The Rock and The Negotiator. He received critical acclaim for his acting skills, earning several award nominations during his career. Spencer passed away on December 16, 2005, just days before his 59th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances.