Daniel Ezra (born 15 December 1991)[1] is a British actor and director. He is best known for his role as Spencer James on the television series All American (2018–present).[2][3][4]
In March 2018, Ezra was cast in a leading role in the American sports drama series All American, which marked his U.S. acting debut and required him to use an American accent.[12][13][14][6] Once he learned that he had received the role, he spent as much time as he could in South Central Los Angeles and carried a football with him everywhere so that he could practice his accent and learn about the local culture.[6][5][15] His favorite rapper, Nipsey Hussle, was from Crenshaw, where the show takes place, so Ezra also studied every song and interview of Hussle as a way of practicing his American accent.[5][16] He did not have an accent coach.[16] In addition, Spencer Paysinger, the real-life football player on whom Ezra's character is based, drove Ezra and his costar Taye Diggs around his local neighborhood so that they could understand the neighborhood dynamics.[17] To prepare for the show, Ezra also watched the NFL Network constantly to learn about the rules of American football.[15] Ezra first realised the show was successful when he attempted to walk in Times Square and was recognised by fans who approached him.[18][19]
