Is James Spader married? No, the Emmy-winning star of The Blacklist and Boston Legal is currently unmarried, though he has been in a long-term relationship with actress-turned-sculptor Leslie Stefanson for over two decades. While his professional life on television features brilliant, eccentric masterminds like Raymond Reddington, his real-life domestic setup remains remarkably private and quiet.
Understanding Spader's relationship history requires looking back at his first marriage, his current family structure, and why he chooses to keep his private life out of the Hollywood spotlight.
The First Marriage: Victoria Kheel
Before his long-term partnership with Stefanson, Spader was married to decorator Victoria Kheel. The two crossed paths in New York City during the early 1980s when Spader worked various odd jobs—including teaching yoga—before his breakout acting roles.
After dating for more than ten years, they married in 1987. Their marriage lasted for nearly seventeen years, producing two sons, Sebastian and Elijah. The couple separated, and Spader filed for divorce in 2004, concluding a significant chapter of his early adult life and career ascent. Official details regarding the terms of the divorce remained largely private, as both parties avoided tabloid scrutiny.
Long-Term Partner: Leslie Stefanson
Spader began dating actress and model Leslie Stefanson in 2002 after they worked together on the film Alien Hunter. Stefanson, who also appeared in movies like The General's Daughter, transitioned away from Hollywood acting shortly thereafter. She pivoted to a career as a fine artist, focusing on terracotta and bronze sculpture.
Though they never married, the couple has shared a stable household for over twenty years. In 2008, they welcomed a son named Nathaneal. The family divides their time between residences in New York City and Los Angeles, balancing Spader's demanding production schedules with Stefanson's art studios.
Family and Children
Spader is a father to three sons across his two major relationships:
- Sebastian Spader: Born to Spader and Victoria Kheel, Sebastian works behind the scenes in the entertainment industry as a film director and producer.
- Elijah Spader: Born to Spader and Kheel, Elijah pursues a career in music production and audio engineering.
- Nathaneal Spader: Born to Spader and Leslie Stefanson, Nathaneal maintains a private life away from the public eye.
In past interviews, such as a profile with Rolling Stone, Spader expressed contentment with his family size, noting a preference for a quiet domestic environment despite his high-profile television career.
Why Spader Stays Out of the Tabloids
Unlike many celebrities who use social media or public appearances to document their personal milestones, Spader maintains a distinct boundary between his work and home life. He does not maintain active personal accounts on platforms like Instagram or X.
According to profiles in publications like The New York Times, this low profile stems from a deliberate choice to let his character work speak for itself. By avoiding the celebrity gossip circuit, he preserves a normal day-to-day existence for his partner and children, even while headlining major network television series viewed by millions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is James Spader currently married?
No. James Spader is not married. He was previously married to Victoria Kheel from 1987 to 2004, but he has not remarried.
Who is James Spader's partner?
He has been in a long-term relationship with former actress and current sculptor Leslie Stefanson since 2002.
How many children does James Spader have?
He has three sons: Sebastian and Elijah with his first wife, and Nathaneal with Leslie Stefanson.
Did James Spader and Leslie Stefanson co-star in any films?
Yes. They appeared together in the 2002 crime thriller The Stick Up and the 2003 science fiction film Alien Hunter.
