


During these early years, she befriended filmmaker and actor Tate Taylor, with whom she would later collaborate on "The Help." Her film debut came in 1996 with "A Time to Kill." Again, Octavia was originally hired to work behind the camera as a casting assistant, but she was given the opportunity to audition for a part. Her academic achievements are especially impressive when you consider that she has struggled with dyslexia throughout her life.Ĭareer: Spencer actually began her journey in the entertainment world as an intern, working behind the scenes as a production assistant on the set of the 1990 film "A Long Walk Home." Inspired by the film's leading star Whoopi Goldberg, Octavia relocated to Los Angeles in 1997 to pursue her own acting career. Although Spencer majored in English during her college years, she also had a double minor in journalism and theater. Her mother then worked as as maid to provide for the large family.Īfter graduating from high school in 1988, Spencer attended Auburn University. Raised alongside six siblings, Octavia had to deal with her father's passing at the age of 13.

CELEBRITIES WHO FADED INTO OBSCURITY SERIES
Octavia has continued her acting career well into the 2020s with roles in series like "Self Made." Outside of acting, Spencer has released a number of children's books.Įarly Life: Octavia Lenora Spencer was born on May 25th of 1970 in Montgomery, Alabama. After booking central roles in sitcoms like "Mom" and drama series like "Red Band Society," Octavia landed the lead role in the Apple TV+ series "Truth Be Told." Once again, she received heaps of praise from critics as a result of this role. Outside of film work, Spencer has been quite active in the television world. Spencer received further praise for her role in "Fruitvale Station." She has since earned Academy Award nominations for a number of additional roles in films like "Hidden Figures" and "The Shape of Water." Towards the end of the 2010s, Octavia gained notoriety for appearing in films like "Snowpiercer, "Luce," "Ma," and "The Shack."
