John Spencer: Leo McGarry of The West Wing Dies at 58

John Spencer was an American actor known as White House chief of staff Leo McGarry on The West Wing. Born John Speshock Jr. on December 20, 1946, in Paterson, New Jersey, he began on stage in New York.

He won a Primetime Emmy Award in 2002 for The West Wing (1999-2006) and was also known for the role of attorney Tommy Mullaney on L.A. Law. His film work included Presumed Innocent, The Rock and Cop Land.

Spencer quit drinking in 1989 after more than twenty years of alcohol addiction. He died of a heart attack at Olympia Medical Center in Los Angeles on December 16, 2005, at age 58, four days before his birthday. His character on the show died in the storyline as well.

Achievements: Emmy Award for The West Wing (2002), role in L.A. Law.

Birth: December 20, 1946 - Paterson, New Jersey.

Profession: Actor.

Interesting Facts: His death came during production of the show's seventh season.