7 Shocking Career Pivots Of Spencer James Star Daniel Ezra After Leaving All American

Daniel Ezra, the British actor who brought the iconic football star Spencer James to life on The CW’s hit drama *All American*, has made a dramatic career pivot, with major new projects and a shift behind the camera dominating headlines in late 2025. After six seasons of portraying the ambitious wide receiver from South Central, Los Angeles, Ezra's departure from the main cast has opened the door to a new phase of his career, including a major Netflix thriller and a new role as a director. This article dives into the freshest updates, confirming his role in high-profile 2025 releases and the surprising circumstances of his character’s return to the *All American* universe. The story of Spencer James, inspired by the life of NFL player Spencer Paysinger, has captivated audiences for years, chronicling his journey from Crenshaw to Beverly Hills High and eventually to Golden Angeles University (GAU) and the NFL. However, the actor behind the character is now charting his own course, moving from the football field to the director's chair and the world of high-stakes streaming thrillers.

Daniel Ezra: Full Biography and Career Milestones

The man behind the beloved character Spencer James is a talented British actor whose career has exploded since landing the lead role in *All American*. His journey from the UK to becoming a household name in American television is a testament to his dedication and skill in mastering a complex, American accent and character.

• Full Name: Daniel Ezra
• Date of Birth: December 15, 1991
• Place of Birth: Birmingham, England
• Nationality: British
• Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
• Net Worth (Approx.): $1.5 Million to $2 Million (as of 2025)
• Education: Trained at the East 15 Acting School in London.
• Notable Early Roles: *The Village*, *A Discovery of Witches* (TV Series), *Prey* (TV Mini Series).
• Breakthrough Role: Spencer James in *All American* (2018–Present).
• New Roles (2025): Marquis Crown in *All The Sinners Bleed* (Netflix Series), *The Running Man* (2025 Film).

Ezra’s commitment to the role of Spencer James, which required him to adopt an American accent for six years, solidified his status as a major talent. Now, with his departure from the main cast of the show, fans are eagerly tracking his next moves, which are proving to be both diverse and ambitious.

The Surprising Exit from All American and Directing Debut

The biggest news surrounding Spencer James in the current year is the significant shift in his on-screen presence. After the conclusion of Season 6, Daniel Ezra officially stepped away from his role as a series regular on *All American*. This move signaled the end of an era for the show and for the character, who had finally achieved his dream of becoming an NFL professional. The actor’s decision was a strategic move to explore new creative avenues and take on different types of projects. However, the departure was not a complete goodbye. Ezra immediately transitioned to a new role behind the scenes, making his directorial debut. He took the helm for the milestone 100th episode of the series, an achievement he reflected on as a beautiful part of the show's legacy. This pivot from lead actor to director demonstrates his growing interest in the creative process beyond performance, a move often seen in seasoned Hollywood veterans. The character of Spencer James, though no longer a regular, remains central to the show's narrative, with his journey to the NFL serving as the aspirational backbone for the remaining characters like Jordan Baker and Olivia Baker. The showrunner, Nkechi Okoro Carroll, has indicated that the door remains open for guest appearances, ensuring that the legacy of Spencer James continues to influence the ongoing storylines.

Major New Roles: Netflix Thriller and 2025 Film Projects

Daniel Ezra is wasting no time in establishing his post-*All American* career, securing roles in two major projects that will showcase his versatility far beyond the football field. These projects are the freshest and most exciting updates for his fans.

1. Starring in the Netflix Thriller *All The Sinners Bleed*

Ezra has officially joined the cast of the highly anticipated Netflix thriller series *All The Sinners Bleed*. This project is a significant departure from the sports drama genre, allowing him to explore a darker, more intense narrative. He is set to play the character Marquis Crown, joining a cast that includes established talents like Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù. The series is expected to be a major streaming event, positioning Ezra as a serious dramatic actor in the competitive world of prestige television. This role confirms his ability to secure high-profile work immediately after his long-running series commitment.

2. Joining the Cast of *The Running Man* (2025 Film)

In another major announcement, Daniel Ezra has been cast in the 2025 dystopian action thriller film *The Running Man*. Based on the novel by Stephen King, the film is set in a nightmare future America where reality TV has devolved into a deadly game. This big-screen role not only demonstrates his move into feature films but also places him alongside a high-caliber cast, further cementing his status as a rising star in Hollywood. The film’s 2025 release date makes this a particularly timely and relevant career update.

The Future of Spencer James in All American Season 7

Despite his exit as a series regular, the story of Spencer James is not entirely over, much to the relief of the show’s dedicated fanbase. Current reports and season previews for *All American* Season 7 have strongly hinted at his return in a guest capacity. One notable discussion thread mentions the return of Spencer James (alongside Darnell Hayes) in a specific Season 7 episode, "Shadowboxin'," to help resolve a rivalry between Cassius and Jordan. While the details are scarce, the mere mention of his name in a Season 7 context confirms that the character remains an integral part of the show's universe, even as the actor focuses on his new ventures. His return, even for a brief arc, is a major event for the series, ensuring that the influence of the Beverly Hills High and GAU football star continues to shape the lives of his friends and family. This strategic, limited return allows Daniel Ezra to honor his commitment to the character while pursuing his expanding creative ambitions as a director and a star in new, exciting genres.