Daniel Ezra may not be a household name in the UK, but across the Atlantic, he’s become one of television’s most compelling young actors. Born on December 15, 1991, in Birmingham, England, Ezra is best known for his lead role as Spencer James in All American, the hit CW drama that has captivated audiences since 2018. But what makes his journey truly remarkable is how seamlessly he transformed from a British stage actor into a convincing American football star—without ever having played the sport before.
From Birmingham to Hollywood: Ezra’s Early Years
Growing up in Birmingham, Ezra wasn’t the kid who dreamed of Hollywood. His childhood was filled with books—Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, and Philip Pullman’s novels were among his favorites. Sports also played a big role in his early years, with basketball being his game of choice. Acting wasn’t even on his radar until he turned 16, when a teacher suggested he audition for a school play. That one decision changed everything. Soon, Ezra found himself drawn to the stage, leading him to train at East 15 Acting School, one of the UK’s top drama institutions.
Ezra’s Jamaican heritage—both his paternal and maternal grandparents were from Jamaica—shaped his identity and perspective. But it was his willingness to embrace new challenges that would eventually propel him far beyond the British theater scene.
Breaking into the Industry: Early Roles and Career Beginnings
Ezra made his television debut in the 2014 BBC drama Murdered by My Boyfriend, a harrowing film that set the tone for his early career. He soon landed roles in high-profile British productions, including Undercover and The Missing, steadily building his resume with gripping performances. By 2018, he was making a name for himself in the UK, but it was his next role that would change everything.
The All American Breakthrough
In March 2018, Ezra was cast as Spencer James in All American, a drama based on the real-life story of NFL player Spencer Paysinger. The role required Ezra to embody a high school football player from South Central Los Angeles—a world far removed from his own. But rather than shy away from the challenge, Ezra leaned in.
Determined to make his portrayal authentic, Ezra spent time in South Central, soaking up the culture and community. He carried a football with him everywhere, determined to learn the mechanics of the sport. He also immersed himself in the music and language of the area, studying interviews and lyrics from his favorite rapper, Nipsey Hussle, who was from Crenshaw—the very neighborhood depicted in the show. And perhaps most impressively, Ezra perfected his American accent without the help of a dialect coach, relying instead on repetition and immersion.
The show became a breakout success, and Ezra’s portrayal of Spencer James struck a chord with audiences. He first realized the impact of All American when he was recognized in Times Square, surrounded by fans eager to meet him. The show not only resonated with viewers but also cemented Ezra as one of The CW’s most promising stars.
A New Chapter: From Acting to Directing
After six seasons leading All American, Ezra made the surprising decision to step away from his role as a series regular. But rather than leaving the show entirely, he transitioned into directing, a move that speaks to his evolving ambitions within the industry.
According to All American showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll, Ezra’s impact on the show isn’t over. “We get him in front of and behind the camera,” Carroll told PEOPLE. She emphasized that All American has always been about growth—not just for its characters, but for the people who bring the show to life. Ezra’s shift to directing is part of a larger legacy within the series, which has also seen actors and crew members take on new roles behind the scenes.
For Ezra, stepping behind the camera allows him to contribute in a different way. While he may no longer be the face of All American, his fingerprints remain all over it. And as the show moves into its seventh season, featuring new characters and storylines, his influence continues to shape its direction.
What’s Next for Daniel Ezra?
With All American in his rearview mirror—at least in terms of starring roles—Ezra has the freedom to explore new projects. While he hasn’t announced his next move, he has hinted at wanting to take on roles that challenge him in fresh ways. Given his theater background, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him return to the stage or take on more dramatic, complex characters in film and television.
Beyond acting, Ezra has expressed interest in roles that push him outside his comfort zone—whether that’s playing a detective, a lawyer, or even stepping into action-heavy roles that require intense physical training. Whatever he chooses, his meticulous approach to preparation suggests he’ll throw himself into the process just as he did with All American.
The Legacy of All American
As All American continues into its next phase, Ezra’s departure as a lead marks a turning point. But the show remains a testament to the power of representation, community, and the pursuit of dreams—something that Ezra himself has embodied throughout his career.
His journey from Birmingham to Hollywood, from British stage actor to American television star, is a reminder that talent and dedication transcend borders. And whether he’s in front of the camera or behind it, Daniel Ezra is a name that television audiences—and Hollywood—won’t forget anytime soon.
