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Is All American Based on a True Story? How Former NFL Player Spencer Paysinger Inspired the Show

The CW series is loosely based on the real life of former New York Giants linebacker Spencer Paysinger

Frederick Breedon/Getty ; Eddy Chen/The CW

The series All American draws inspiration from the true story of former NFL player Spencer Paysinger.

The CW show, which premiered in 2018, follows Spencer James (Daniel Ezra), a star high school football player from South Crenshaw High School who makes a transfer to Beverly Hills High after he’s recruited by the team’s coach, Billy Baker ( Taye Diggs ).

When Spencer moves in with Billy and his family, he experiences a clash of worlds. As the show unfolds, tensions arise as Spencer grapples with his role at school, in his family and in his community. Although dramatized at times, All American is inspired by the true story of Paysinger, a former New York Giants linebacker turned producer of the show.

Reflecting on the pilot episode on an episode of the In The Zone podcast in May 2023, he explained how creative liberties were taken with the storyline and plot. “That whole experience was so crazy because there are definitely things in the pilot, sometimes they’re word for word how it happened in real life," Paysinger said.

He continued, “There are some moments in the pilot that I wrote, that I changed, so to see those acted on a grand scale like that and then people actually like it was something that completely redefined the goals that I wanted in my life."

Here’s the true story of All American , including who Spencer Paysinger is and how he inspired the show.

Who is Spencer Paysinger?

Spencer Paysinger Instagram

Spencer Paysinger is a former NFL player whose life inspired The CW series All American .

Much like the character Spencer from the show, Paysinger grew up in South Los Angeles and attended high school in Beverly Hills. He played football at Beverly Hills High School before he went off to University of Oregon, where he continued participating in the sport and graduated with a degree in economics in 2010.

Afterward, Paysinger was not drafted to the NFL but signed with the New York Giants as a free agent in 2011. He played for the Giants from 2011 to 2014 and helped the team win Super Bowl XLVI during his rookie year. Paysinger eventually joined the Miami Dolphins for two seasons.

Doug Murray/Icon Sportswire/Getty

In 2017, he was signed by the New York Jets but released before the start of the season. Paysinger went on to end his career with the Carolina Panthers, with whom he played three games before he was released and subsequently retired.

Reflecting on the decision, Paysinger revealed that he was looking forward to exploring different opportunities inspired by his love of movies. "I remember sitting in my locker that day, packing all my stuff, smiling," he told ESPN . "I never wanted football to be my highest peak."

In his retirement, the former linebacker has focused on more creative projects, including producing All American . According to a press release from Northwest Missouri State University , Paysinger was pitching the show's idea in the months leading up to his departure from the field.

Is All American a true story?

Bill Inoshita /The CW

All American is loosely based on Paysinger's life, though several aspects of his experiences were changed in the show.

Paysinger told the New England Sports Network in April 2020 that “a lot of the stories are rooted in the truth.” He explained, “Obviously to create a compelling CW show, we have to sort of bend the truth a little bit and take a digression from what originally happened. But for the most part, a lot of the stories do ring true.”

Some notable changes between Paysinger’s real life and All American include his football career. While he transferred to Beverly Hills High School in the show, he was actually enrolled all four years as part of a multicultural program in real life. Other changes included Spencer’s college of choice in the show and a gang-related shooting that almost left him unable to play football, which didn't occur off-screen.

In addition, there has been speculation about which characters in the series are based on real people in Paysinger’s life. He shared that there are a “handful of characters'' who were depicted as “one for one in real life,” while others were an “amalgamation of different people from his past.” However, a particular character was directly inspired by a real figure in his life — Diggs’ character, Billy.

Robert Voets/The CW

“Billy Baker is loosely based on my uncle Carter Paysinger , who was the head football coach at Beverly Hills High School when I got to Beverly,” Paysinger said. “He was a mentor back then, still to this day, I still look to him for guidance.”

Paysinger said that his uncle, who has been a coach for over three decades, often sent him notes on Diggs’ performance. He explained, “It’s been interesting giving a real life coach’s perspective on Taye Diggs’ coaching.”

Paysinger attributed much of the show's success and the translation of his story to the screen to a “tremendous trust process” with the series’ showrunner, Nkechi Okoro Carroll.

“I talk to her in the writer’s room a lot and give them a trove of stories from my past that I trust for them to go and take and mold them into the stories that you guys see on TV,” he told PIX11 News in March 2021. “Initially, three years ago, when they were taking those stories and changing them, I was like, ‘Wait, that’s not exactly how it happened.’ But it’s just all part of having that creative license to make a compelling show.”

Was Spencer Paysinger involved in creating All American?

Ray Mickshaw/The CW

Paysinger played a role in the creation of All American, and serves as a consulting producer on the series. During an April 2020 interview with the New England Sports Network, he opened up about his passion for film growing up, which inspired him to start writing short stories and ultimately led to the show's inception.

The idea for All American was born in 2015 when Paysinger was introduced to film producer Dane Morck, ESPN reported. At the time, Morck asked Paysinger what it was like growing up in Beverly Hills, to which the NFL player corrected him and shared the story of his life in South L.A. According to Paysinger, he had to deal with violence in his neighborhood while also being surrounded by affluent students at school.

Paysinger eventually got a call from producer Robbie Rogers, who was engaged to TV producer Greg Berlanti at the time. He went on to meet with Warner Bros., and in their second meeting, The CW bought the rights to the show. In 2018, the pilot for All American was shot, and everything changed.

With All American, Paysinger had one main goal: to dispel the stereotypes about the inner city.

"I wanted to tell the story of, 'We're a lot more similar on these different sides of the track than you guys think,' " he explained. "Being from South Central, and knowing how South Central is portrayed in Hollywood as this desolate area with gang violence, drugs, everything — they have to realize that the sun shines there as long as it shines in Beverly Hills.”

He added, “The one thing I want the viewers to see is South Central is also a beautiful place. It's a wonderful place. It's a place that I call home to this day. I think we've been able to do that."

Eddy Chen/The CW

Speaking to CBS News in October 2018 ahead of the show’s premiere, Paysinger shared more details about his involvement with the project.

“I had the luxury of being a consulting producer to go within the writer's room a couple days a week and also to be on set as often as I wanted,” he said. “This is something I've wanted to do since retiring from football so I'm soaking up as much as I can and being there as often as I can.”

In addition to his role as a producer, Paysinger broke out his acting chops and made a cameo in the earlier seasons as an assistant coach to Diggs’ character. He jokingly referred to himself as an “Easter egg in the show” to PIX11 News in March 2021.

“I have fun with it. I’ve had a couple of lines over the last two seasons, but who knows,” he said. “I’m not necessarily getting into acting, now’s been the year of yes for me.”

While Paysinger got a few lines in the show’s second installment, he told the New England News Network in April 2020 that he has been in the background since the first episode of season 1.

“As more people get familiar with it, it’s just been funny being Coach Davis in the background,” he said. “But when we were figuring out who to cast, what to cast, the executive producers, they literally looked to me and my producing partner Dane Morck And said ‘Hey, do you guys want to be the assistant coaches for Taye Diggs at Beverly High?’ ”

Where is Spencer Paysinger today?

Gregg DeGuire/WireImage

Apart from his work on All American, Paysinger has continued his post-NFL life as an entrepreneur, all while helping build and enhance his community.

His bio on The CW shares that he is a co-owner of the cafe Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen, which has several locations around L.A. and he's on the board of the KIPP Public Schools Black and Latinx Leadership Committee. Paysinger also assists with running the investment fund, Afterball LLC, which helps former football players navigate new life ventures after their careers conclude.

As for his personal life, Paysinger married his wife, Blair , in May 2016. The couple are parents to two young children : daughter Cairo and son Madden.

They originally met in high school when Blair was a freshman at Beverly Hills High School, leading some fans to wonder if she inspired Spencer’s love interest on All American .

During a May 2021 appearance on the Black Love aftershow , she mentioned that she didn’t initially remember the moment they first crossed paths, though Paysinger did and said there was a “build up” toward their eventual relationship.

“I was playing on the same football team as her older brother,” he explained. “That summer, everybody was like, ‘Yo, Alex's little sister's coming. She's cute.’ So when I saw her, I was like, ‘That's gotta be Alex's sister.’ And that's why I remember because it was like anticipation of her coming to the school.”

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‘All American’ review: Much more than your average teen drama

This article contains spoilers for “All American” seasons one through three.

At first glance, “All American” seems like your typical teen drama. The popular Netflix teen drama highlights that things are not always as they seem as “All American” incorporates relevant social issues that deserve attention into its entertaining plot. 

“All American” centers on Spencer James, a  young, Black high schooler and football star. He lives in Crenshaw, a Los Angeles neighborhood associated with gangs and violence. He is recruited by football coach Billy Baker to Beverly Hills where he gets trained and led on the path to fulfill his dreams of playing in the NFL. His time at Beverly Hills quickly becomes formative, with Spencer meeting many influential people who become primary characters in the show’s plot. Beyond the surface level of teen drama and love triangles, the show presents important modern societal issues in meaningful ways. 

Spencer struggles to balance football, family drama and school as well as all of the other normal stressors of being a teen. His best friend Coop struggles with gang-related issues when she decides to join one in order to make ends meet. Coop’s struggles highlight the socioeconomic inequalities and lack of financial opportunities that are so heavily correlated with race in America, as one of many race-related inequities that are addressed throughout the show. With the majority of the main characters being Black, “All American” consistently addresses issues of racial inequity in America. In one scene, Spencer and his friends get kicked out from a frozen yogurt shop by the owner after dropping their frozen yogurt and offering to pick it up, with the owner saying that she does not want any issues with them as people (Black people).  She calls the cops on them as they get offended and ask why they are being kicked out. This is the result of just one of several instances that address racism in the world. 

Coop — a young, Black, queer woman — serves an important role in the show as she struggles to be accepted as herself not only in society but in her own family. She manages to always embrace her identity and instead of succumbing to pressure, fights for people to accept her. Her character brings inspiration to others with identities like Coop and brings relevance to another issue of being accepted as LGBTQ+, especially among racial minorities. 

We see the rare case in coach Billy Baker’s household where the woman of the house earns and provides more for the family than the man, breaking social norms and again providing representation on societal outcomes that are not seen very frequently.

Another major issue is addressed when one of the main characters, Layla, struggles with depression. We learn that she has never gotten over the death of her mother and feels immense pressure with everything in her life as she feels she needs to be perfect at all times. She is going through all of this in an empty house since her father is traveling so often. This storyline has become even more important now that we see the immense pressure athletes in the Tokyo Olympics are put under and how important mental health is. Mental health issues have been very rarely addressed in teen TV shows and even then have not been made as important as it has been for Layla as we see her really struggling with it. This storyline has surely inspired many others with mental health issues in assuring them they are not alone, and it’s okay not to be okay. This has an even bigger impact with the issue coming from the character Layla, who seems to be the perfect human being, but really this shows the audience she has issues and flaws, just like the rest of us.

Another major issue covered is substance abuse. Olivia, one of the show’s primary characters, is one who has suffered and continues to suffer in her recovery from drug use. She resists the urge to go back to drugs and we see her path of recovery more than her path to destruction, which is equally as important, shedding positivity to those struggling with substance abuse while still portraying her situation as a serious one to other audience members. Like many other issues, for people struggling with substance abuse and drug issues, seeing Olivia on the screen battling her urges and having the courage to talk it out with her family is very inspiring and possibly life changing. 

“All American” covers many important issues in a smart way which is relevant to the whole world, since the main audience, teens, are the next generation. “All American” particularly makes an impact by sharing this content through a show made for teenagers. The show presents necessary education and inspiration, along with the classic indulging teen drama viewers come for. “All American” is an amazing show that serves a meaningful purpose.

Isabella Hirsch is a high schooler writing as part of The Daily’s Summer Journalism Workshop. Contact them at workshop 'at' stanforddaily.com.

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Five Life Lessons the Show All American Teaches Us

The TV series All American , which first premiered on 10th October, 2018 on the CW, is written and directed by April Blair. The sports drama series takes much inspiration from the life of Spencer Paysinger, a professional NFL player, with Daniel Ezra playing the lead role as Spencer James. The CW renewed the second season of the series in April 2019, premiering it on 7th October 2019. Likewise, the company renewed the series in January 2020 for its third season. There are many lessons we can learn from the “All American” show since the first season. Let’s look at five lessons the show has taught us so far:

1. Secrets Can Come Back to Haunt You

The second season of the “All American” drama series returned with more hidden secrets. Baker (Taye Diggs) reveals to Laura (Monet Mazur) of his affair with Grace James (Karimah Westbrook) in the Season 1 finale. It’s quite unbearable to watch this episode since this is the consequence of hiding secrets for long. Secrets that can potentially harm your life, especially when family means everything to you. However, Affairs typically go both ways, and as such, Grace should not have concealed a big secret from Spencer. Consequently, long-kept secrets come to the limelight, and now, both Baker and Grace must make up for everything. At this moment, it will be unhealthy for Spencer to bear another dose of stress in his life, and as things stand, this affair may not be the last of it.

2. Family Support is Crucial in Personal Career Development

Indeed, family members can push you towards reaching your full potential career-wise. The real character of Spencer James doesn’t exist, but his role in the All American show is based on a real person, Spencer Paysinger. Just like Spencer James, Paysinger grew up in South-Central LA and played football in the South-Central High School team. He was recruited into Beverly Hills after the team’s head coach, Billy Baker, was impressed by his performance. However, he was adamant about joining, just like the All American Spencer.

According to a 2018 ESPN interview , Spencer revealed how reluctant he was to join Beverly Hills since he wanted to remain closer to friends. However, his family was not about to have any of it. It was his parent’s decision that forced Spencer to join Beverly Hills and play for the team, moving in with the Baker’s family. His parent’s decision was reached to offer Spencer a brighter future. In real life, Paysinger participated in the school’s program, set up to assist students from neighboring communities in applying for permit status. Since 1969, more than 1,000 students have benefited from the program with a 90% graduation rate.

3. Always Respect Where You Come From

Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, Paysinger stressed on the importance of respecting South-Central in the CW’s All American drama. It wouldn’t have fared well to cast Spencer as having gone to Beverly, and that everything was alright. In the real sense, attending Beverly exposed him to a whole bunch of rich kid problems. South-Central is associated with gang violence, poverty, and drug addiction.

The All American show tries to address these struggles and touches on the aspect of family in the community. Most of the South LA scenes were shot at crucial landmarks in Paysinger’s early life. These include the park and Tolliver’s barbershop, where he had his first trim. According to Paysinger’s interview with the Los Angeles Times , he wanted to depict these areas as an extension of himself.

4. Your Friends May Help You Succeed or Become the Source of Your Downfall

While growing up in South Central, Spencer dealt with many things, including gangs, poverty, violence, and drugs. He had many friends from middle school that headed straight into the gang life and knew at least five who ended up being killed due to it. However, there was more to South-Central than just that. The community boasts of a wealthy family culture. All the kids on the block were his best friends, and together, they hung around each other’s homes. Spencer could knock at a friend’s door and grab some food or play basketball in their backyards.

After moving to Beverly Hills, he met with wealthy kids who had drug addiction problems. Some as young as 15-years old had already been through rehab due to cocaine or heroin addiction. He observed how their parents would abandon them for months to travel in different parts of the world for work, and he felt for them. These cases made spencer realize that even though you can be born with a silver spoon in your mouth, you may still face the same problems that everyone encounters during this age.

5. Everyone Faces Challenges, But How You Handle Them is What Matters

Karimah Westbrook stars in the CW, All American sports drama as Grace James. As a single mother, Westbrook has to deal with the burden of caring for Spencer and Dillon. According to her, from a recent post published by Steve Gidlow, of the MediaVillage , she believes that the All American series is a vital show, especially in the current times. It’s a realistic portrayal of a fractured family unit that draws ideas from personal experience.

Shows like these are essential and demonstrate that you are not alone as many other people deal with real issues, no matter their color, class, or social-economic status. There are many ardent issues that people have to handle and struggle with in their life. She recalls how Spencer was quite open as they faced many challenges together as a family. The same may be said for most parents who always wonder what to do in times of crisis.

The second season of the All American show wrapped up with the 16th episode, which aired last on 9th March 2020. As we’ve seen, there are many lessons you can pick from this CW sports drama series. In January 2020, CW renewed the popular sports drama for season 3, which is expected to premiere in October. Hopefully, we can expect to learn more life lessons from the long-awaited season of this show.Taye Diggs

Aiden Mason

Aiden's been an entertainment freelancer for over 10 years covering movies, television and the occasional comic or video game beat. If it's anything Shawshank Redemption, Seinfeld, or Kevin Bacon game related he's way more interested.

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All American Season 1 Episode 13 Review: Legacy

By: Author Stacy Glanzman

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Spencer's dad is back. 

We knew this day would come eventually, and now that it's happened, we're left with even more questions. 

His surprise return on  All American Season 1 Episode 13  threw Spencer off his game, but no matter what is revealed, we know he'll find a way to bounce back. 

Spencer is forced to dig deep when his teacher threatens to bench him for the playoffs if he doesn't improve his essay. He has to write about his biggest influence, and a football player just isn't going to cut it. 

His teammate got away with writing about The Rock, but it's obvious that this teacher sees something more in Spencer, and threatening football was the only way to draw it out of him. 

Related: All American Season 1 Episode 12 Review: Back in the Day

I think between that and Layla sharing about her mom's music, he's realizing he has so much more going for him than football. The NFL is still his dream, but he has the brains and the work ethic for a pretty good fallback plan if Plan A doesn't work out. 

His dad's unexpected arrival is going to mess with his head. 

Coop: Look I know losing him was hard, but life turned out good for you. Spencer: It’s been hard on my moms though. Coop: You don’t have to worry about Grace. She’s strong. 🔗 permalink: You don’t have to worry about Grace. She’s strong.

Coop may not have been the focal point of Spencer's essay, but she did point him in the right direction. His greatest influence isn't his father, but his father's absence. 

He'd be a different person if his father had never left. 

He never would have gone to Beverly and it's possible he wouldn't be on the radar of so many colleges. 

His absence helped shape the man Spencer is today, and now that he's returned, it's fair to question how it will affect his future 

It nearly cost Beverly the game, but this team is more than just one player. 

First of all, whatever doubts Billy had about Jordan should have been addressed well before the playoffs. No one benches their starting quarterback for the big game if he's healthy. 

Related: Enjoy Unlimited Access to Thousands of Movies and TV Shows with Amazon Prime Video

Also, after watching that playoff game, it was obvious Jordan was not the only problem. How can Billy expect Jordan to be at his best when he has no protection? He should work on his O-line. 

Jordan should be commended for getting the ball out of his hands so fast considering he was being hit almost immediately after the ball had been snapped. A better O-line would give him more time to make a play. He deserves all the credit for that win. 

Jordan made a good point about Billy putting it all on the line to protect Jordan by swapping his urine sample if he intended to bench him anyway. I think it was all a test for Billy to push Jordan to stand up for himself.

He needed to see that Jordan had the grit to stand up to the pressure of the playoffs. He came through with flying colors, but now it remains to be seen if Spencer can get his mojo back. 

Why is Corey back all of a sudden? 

Willie has something to do with it, but I imagine his influence is minor. Grace and Corey are keeping something huge from Spencer, and I don't know about you guys, but I'm ready to find out what it is. 

Spencer: All these years I’ve been playing ball, you ain’t once said I reminded you of him. Grace: First of all, you don’t. Second, I didn’t say anything because anytime someone mentions your dad, your head explodes. 🔗 permalink: First of all, you don’t. Second, I didn’t say anything because anytime someone mentions your…

Grace has her reasons for keeping Spencer in the dark, but whatever they are, the truth is bound to come out. It would be better if she told him on her own terms before he finds out in a way that could devastate him. 

Honestly, how have these characters not learned that by now? Secrets only come back to bite you in the ass. 

The timing of Corey's arrival wasn't only bad for Spencer. 

Sparks are clearly flying between Grace and her new T.A., and I can just imagine how the sudden return of her ex-husband could throw a wrench into that potential relationship before it even has a chance to get started. 

Grace deserves some happiness, so here's hoping she remains open to pursuing it. 

Coop is getting in too deep. 

She is really starting to worry me with this plan of hers. 

That Trojan Horse reference could not have been any less subtle. He's on to her plan, and that could be bad news. 

Related: The CW at TCA: Riverdale Spinoff, All American's Fate, & More

Personally, I'm hoping he's feeling her out to see if she bites. I could see the two of them forming an alliance to bring Tyronne down together. 

Still, Coop has to tread carefully. This is a dangerous mission, and Tyronne is hovering over her every move. Coop is smart, but she's also somewhat reckless, and that could get her killed. 

Coop's story is probably the most intriguing, but it keeps her so isolated from the rest of the cast. Sure she always has a heart-to-heart or two with Spencer, but I wish we could see her interact more with everyone else. 

Spencer's life is so divided between Crenshaw and Beverly. The few moments we get when the two collide are some of the best. 

Olivia sharing her essay with her mom was a touching moment. It would be so easy to show her parents enthusiastically applaud her at her AA meeting and then retreat back to their everyday lives.

The continuity and Laura's determination to do better is appreciated. 

Honestly, this one felt a little lacking in comparison with the latest batch of truly fantastic episodes, but it served as a segue into the final stretch of the season. 

Jordan's comment about Beverly and Crenshaw winning out meaning they would play each other for the state championship feels like foreshadowing. 

I think that's a game we all want to see. 

Your turn! What are your thoughts on Corey's return, and what do you think he and Grace are hiding? Do you think Coop may have found a new ally, or should she watch her back? 

Hit the comments and don't forget to watch All American online!

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Is 'All American' Based on a True Story?

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The Big Picture

• All American is based on the true story of NFL linebacker Spencer Paysinger, who played football at Beverly Hills High as a teen.
• The show takes creative liberties with Paysinger's life, including changing his name to Spencer James and altering key events for drama.
• Spencer Paysinger is a consulting producer on the show and has transitioned into entrepreneurship after retiring from the NFL.

The short answer to whether or not All American is based on a true story is yes. All American is inspired by and loosely based around the life of real-life NFL linebacker, Spencer Paysinger , who played football at Beverly Hills High as a teen, as part of Beverly Hills’ multicultural program. Paysinger grew up and originally attended school in South Central LA, before being recruited by the Beverly Hills High coach. Paysinger pitched the concept of All American, and it was picked up by The CW in 2017. Despite being based on a real-life person and athlete, however, the network does change some things about the story, taking some creative liberties with Paysinger’s life and experiences. The most obvious of which is Paysinger’s name, which, in the show is changed to Spencer James, played by Daniel Ezra . However, six seasons into the show, the story has deviated largely with multiple main characters who have their own storylines and plots.

All American

Spencer James is a rising high school football player and A student at South Crenshaw High, but when coach Billy Baker recruits him to join his team in Beverly Hills, Spencer's mother, Grace, and his best friend, Coop, convince him it's an opportunity he has to seize. Forced to move in with Billy and his family to protect his transfer permit to Beverly, Billy's son Jordan, who is also the starting quarterback, is less than thrilled to be sharing his father's attention -- or the team spotlight. While Spencer struggles to find his footing, he makes an unlikely friend in Jordan's sister, who is struggling with her own demons.

The Biggest Changes in 'All American' Are For the Sake of Entertainment

Most of the bigger changes in the show are for the sake of entertainment and drama; one difference is that Paysinger actually spent the entirety of his high school career at Beverly Hills , rather than going back briefly to his old school as he did in All American , which was added to show the extent of the differences between the two worlds that Spencer now inhabited. Spencer’s position as wide receiver is also not true; in real life, Spencer Paysinger spent his football career as a linebacker.

Paysinger was also never a victim of a gang-related shooting , something that took place in Season 2 of the show, when Spencer is shot during a surprise shooting. He is rushed to the hospital, where other gang members attempt to finish the job.

One of the biggest differences between All American and Spencer Paysinger’s real life, however, is the fate of Spencer’s father. While in real life Paysinger’s father, Douglas, is alive and well, and also a staunch supporter of Paysinger’s career , in All American , Spencer James’ father, Corey ( Chad L. Coleman ), passes away from a lifelong illness; in the show, Corey was a high school football coach , and he and Spencer had been looking forward to when Corey could finally coach his son on the field. His death is so traumatic that it leads Spencer James to walk away from football and, in Season 3, he returns to his old school.

In real life, Paysinger’s father was both the assistant coach for Beverly Hills High, and later the head coach . Paysinger’s uncle was also a head coach of Beverly Hills High football team for multiple years.

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What Does Spencer Paysinger Think About the Changes Made?

Regarding the changes to his life made in the show, Spencer Paysinger spoke to ESPN about his idea for the show, stating, “We're a lot more similar on these different sides of the track than you guys think,” and commented on the idea that he did not want to tell a story where, “Spencer went to Beverly and everything was great,” because he felt that it was not only inauthentic, but painted his old high school, South Crenshaw, and neighborhood, South Central, in a bad light . He commented on how South Central was portrayed in the media, noting that Hollywood made it out to be “this desolate area with gang violence, drugs, everything.”

Paysinger’s goal with the show was to not only create a show that, at its heart, was about football and the joy he got from playing, but also about the two different worlds he grew up in and the challenges of living in the sort of limbo between them . The exaggeration and fabrication of certain events in the show help to illustrate the persistence of problems throughout life, regardless of background and lifestyle.

All American portrays a story filled with class drama and differences, as well as various family affairs, young love, tragic loss, and violence, all of which Spencer contends with while trying to pursue his passion – football. It is a commentary not only on the struggles of high school , but also the struggles of everyday life for people in all kinds of situations. It is a coming-of-age story that places its main character in the middle of a series of struggles that nearly everyone can relate to in some shape or form. In the show, there is no ‘better side’ to be on; the affluent neighborhood and school that Spencer ends up going to has just as many problems as the low-income neighborhood he grew up in. Paysinger told ESPN, " Beverly actually exposed me to a whole new set of problems – rich kid problems,” and noted that no matter where one goes, there will always be challenges.

The series also has a spin-off series called All-American: Homecoming starring Geffri Maya as Simone Hicks. The series does not involve Spencer, instead it focuses on a character who is attending a historically black college in Atlanta and is pursuing her dreams of being a pro-tennis player.

Where Is Paysinger Now?

For Paysinger, his time playing football in high school was just the beginning. After graduating from high school, Spencer Paysinger attended the University of Oregon, playing for the Ducks football team before eventually making it to the NFL. He started playing with the New York Giants in 2011, and also played for the Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, and Carolina Panthers. In 2017, he retired and opened his own coffee shop , Hilltop Coffee, in LA. He also started an investment fund called Afterball LLC , helping NFL players whose careers have suddenly ended.

Paysinger is a consulting producer on All American , and also has a minor role as an assistant coach at Beverly Hills High.

Watch Seasons 1--5 of All American on Netflix in the U.S. New episodes of All American Season 6 stream on The CW.

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• TV Features

How All-American's Inspiration Spencer Paysinger Really Feels About The Show

There is no denying that the teen sports drama "All American" is one of The CW's most popular shows. The compelling narrative is inspired by former NFL player Spencer Paysinger's high school years and the struggles he had to endure to make his dream a reality. The series started as a critically acclaimed gem, with its rookie and sophomore seasons garnering impressive scores on Rotten Tomatoes . "All American" has continued to be victorious with fans several years later. The CW drama was one of the most popular shows to watch on Netflix, per  Business Insider , and tackled the number one spot on the Nielsen ratings, via TVLine .

The "All American" journey started when Paysinger had an idea for a TV show once his career ended with the NFL, and like his dreams of playing professional football, it came true. While entertaining fans with plenty of drama, the show does cover poignant topics and relatable issues that Paysinger dealt with during his efforts on and off the field. The show has gained a substantial following, and star Daniel Ezra has stated that the series, as well as the character he loves playing, would not be possible if it weren't for his hero Paysinger (via Instagram ). Fans, critics, and the program's leading man seem to be enjoying the exciting championship run. Some may be curious to hear how the man behind it all, Spencer Paysinger, feels about The CW's "All American."

Spencer Paysinger thinks All American is phenomenal

Spencer Paysinger doesn't just think the teen sports drama is a great show; he thinks it has the potential to make the same significant impact as game changers like "The O.C." or "Friday Night Lights." In an interview with One37pm , the "All American" inspiration revealed that he is pleased about the show and its legacy. Early on, he knew they were on to something special, saying, "I always said, and this was when we were shooting the pilot playfully, saying every seven to ten years, there is this high school phenom show that grabs different demographics. Whether it is stories, representation, or that salaciousness of it and I felt at the time, we had all the pieces to be that show. So, you fast forward, and I would argue that we are that show."

Paysinger may be right, as the series has been on a winning streak for several seasons and spawned two spinoffs with "All American: Homecoming" and "All American Stories." The character based on Paysinger, Spencer James, has not only been a hit with fans but with critics as well. Matt Roush from TV Insider said, "Unlike so many of his CW brethren, Spencer is no superhero, but he's definitely worth rooting for." There is certainly still time left on the clock for the series to secure its place in TV history as a champion of the small screen, and fans will continue to be inspired by Paysinger's legacy as long as episodes of "All American" are available to enjoy.

• Entertainment

Yes, All American Is Based on a True Story — But the Writers Made a Few Changes

Spencer James, the central character in The CW's All American , is a talented football player from a low-income neighborhood who is chosen to play on a new team with the money and resources to make him a star. You may have thought Spencer James's story was written expressly for the screen, so it may surprise you All American is based on real life, and there are some surprising pieces of Spencer's real-life story that you should know.

In the show, Spencer (Daniel Ezra) is tapped by Billy Baker, the varsity football coach at Beverly High in Beverly Hills, to come and play on his team. Spencer leaves his team at South Crenshaw High and moves in with the coach and his family so he's eligible to play. While he experiences culture shock at the new school where his classmates are majority white and wealthy, he becomes a star athlete.

The show is loosely based on the life of NFL linebacker Spencer Paysinger , who grew up in South Central LA but went to school and played football in Beverly Hills through their multicultural program. Paysinger came up with the concept for All American , and it was picked up by The CW, though the network takes some creative liberties with the storyline.

Unlike TV Spencer, Paysinger didn't go back and forth between his South Central LA and Beverly Hills high schools. He spent his entire high school career at Beverly Hills High School and graduated in 2006. All American 's Spencer went back to South Crenshaw High after briefly playing for BHHS. And one other stark difference between the show and real life is Spencer's dad. Spencer's dad dies in the show, but Paysinger's father, Donald Paysinger, is very much alive and supported Paysinger throughout his football career. Lastly, while Spencer James's football position is wide receiver, Paysinger was a linebacker throughout his real-life football career.

Paysinger overcame many hardships to achieve great success, which is mirrored in All American . He's taken his beginnings in football and turned them into a show that tells an important story, one Paysinger hoped would highlight the beauty of his hometown that too often goes ignored. "I didn't want to disrespect [South Crenshaw] and say Spencer went to Beverly and everything was great," Paysinger told the Los Angeles Times in 2018. " Beverly actually exposed me to a whole new set of problems — rich kid problems." He also told ESPN, "I wanted to tell the story of, 'We're a lot more similar on these different sides of the track than you guys think.' Being from South Central, and knowing how South Central is portrayed in Hollywood as this desolate area with gang violence, drugs, everything — they have to realize that the sun shines there as long as it shines in Beverly Hills. The one thing I want the viewers to see is South Central is also a beautiful place. It's a wonderful place. It's a place that I call home to this day. I think we've been able to do that."

In real life, Paysinger attended the University of Oregon , where he played for the Ducks football team before heading to the NFL. He started with the New York Giants in 2011 before having short stints playing for the Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, and Carolina Panthers. Paysinger retired from football in 2017. He now works as a consulting producer on All American and has opened his own coffee shop. He also started an investment fund called Afterball LLC, which aims to help NFL players cope with their careers suddenly ending.

• True Stories
• All American

• Orphans on father side
• Male Characters

Spencer James

Spencer Alonzo James is the main protagonist of The CW series All American . He is portrayed by Daniel Ezra .

He played as the wide receiver on the football team at South Crenshaw High School , before being approached by Beverly High School football coach Billy Baker , who asked him to start playing for his football team. After Spencer accepts the offer, he finds himself in a world completely different from what he has always known.

As Golden Angeles University ’s starting wide receiver. After a tumultuous start, Spencer has leveled up to become a leader and star player of a D1 football program as a freshman. However, his pursuit of his NFL dreams is increasingly complicated by his relationships. Navigating these pressures on and off the field, while not losing sight of his own identity, is the lesson he must keep learning.

• 1 Season One
• 2 Personality
• 3 Physical Appearance
• 4.1 Tamia Cooper
• 4.2 Olivia Baker
• 4.3 Layla Keating
• 4.4 Jordan Baker
• 4.5 Asher Adams
• 4.6 Dillon James
• 4.7 Grace James
• 4.8 Laura Baker
• 4.9 Billy Baker
• 8 Appearances
• 9 References

Season One [ ]

Spencer James is the star of South Crenshaw High School's football team. The football team huddles up, and Spencer tells his teammates he wants the ball. The next play is a deep pass to Spencer. He flips into the end zone and scores. His team wins and the crowd cheers. Well until they hear gunshots.

After, Spencer's approached by Billy Baker, the coach of Beverly High. The coach tries to convince Spencer to come play at his school and assures him that he can get around the recruiting rules. According to coach, Beverly High is a better and safer school, and he can make his NFL dreams a reality. However, Spencer declines the offer and walks away.

At South Crenshaw High School, Spencer, in an attempt to protect his friend, Coop, gets into a fight. Returning home, he's greeted by Coach Baker. It seems as if he's told Spencer's mother, Grace, all about the offer. She agrees that going to Beverly is the best thing for him.

it's clear that Beverly High is a completely different world. In Spencer's first class, everyone has a computer except him. The girl behind him, Olivia, offers to share and then shows him around school. Jordan, Beverly High's QB, introduces himself to Spencer. Turns out, Jordan, is Coach Baker's son. And Olivia is the coach's daughter.

Jordan introduces Spencer to the group including Layla and Asher, who plays the same position and isn't too happy about Spencer joining the team. He says something rude and Spencer walks away. Layla ends up apologizing for him and they engage in conversation. Realizing that Spencer notices things that other people can't, Layla is curious as to what he sees in her. He says she's like a defensive back: confident, wants to call all the plays, and seems lonely.

Spencer's first practice doesn't go very well. After he runs the wrong plays, Jordan calls him out on it. Coach Baker wants to try Spencer out on a new position, and Spencer refuses. Adamant on scoring touchdowns, he's against playing defense. After practice, Spencer complains to Coop about Coach Baker and the team. He doesn't know if he wants to be at Beverly, but Coop reassures him. She tells him to make this his season.

Jordan brings Spencer to the Baker house, and Spencer takes notice of how amazing the house is. Jordan reveals that his mother, Laura, is an attorney. While they're hanging out, Jordan overhears his dad on the phone. He hears that Billy wouldn't have recruited Spencer if anyone on his team had half his potential.

Together, Jordan and Asher develop a plan and get Spencer to come to a party that night and take shots. Spencer's worried since they have practice the next day but they assure him it's just drills. Jordan and Asher pour their drinks out, but Spencer gets pretty drunk, and it shows the next day.

At practice, Spencer quickly learns it's scrimmage day, and he was tricked. He gets angry and starts to fight, but Coach Baker breaks it up. Spencer lashes at Coach Baker, too, because he thinks Billy only wants to save his job and doesn't care about him.

Again, Coop encourages Spencer to take his chance. Not only can Spencer help his mother, but he can give his brother, Dillon, a better life. So, he goes to Coach Baker and tells him he wants to play in the NFL. After the win, Coach Baker and Spencer walk off the field together -- which Jordan sees. Jordan's feelings are obviously hurt, and he's a little jealous. Coach Baker is proud of Spencer.

Spencer walks off the field. He's headed towards Olivia, but Layla swoops in. She apologizes for the party and claims she didn't know. Spencer assures her that it's okay and they agree to be friends.

Back at school, Spencer is a star. Everyone seems to be excited to see him, and he seems to love all the attention. But Coach Baker pulls him aside with some bad news: his transfer permit is being contested. Spencer has to move in with the Baker's so he can keep playing for Beverly High. [1]

After winning his first pee-wee football game, a young Spencer runs over to his mother, Grace, and asks if his father made it back into town to see him play. After his mother delivers the bad news, a disappointed Spencer runs away. Present day, Spencer is shown running across the beach in Beverly Hills as he catches a football. Obviously homesick, Spencer is in Crenshaw on a weekday. However, his return is bittersweet when he learns that his childhood friend Coop has been spending time with Shawn, a neighborhood gang member. And, to make matters worse, Dylan shows him a comic book that Shawn bought him. Agitated, Spencer heads out to confront Shawn, which leads to a scuffle. Fortunately, Coop saves the day but it's not a warm embrace. Later, Spencer and Coop reconcile.

After Layla and Spencer have a heartfelt talk, she wants him to stay longer and have a beer; however, a responsible Spencer declines. Spencer is taking a shower at the Baker's home in Beverly Hills, unbeknownst to Olivia -- who steps in just as he steps out. It's an awkward moment. As Jordan and Billy are running plays, input from Spencer inadvertently steals Jordan's thunder. During football practice, Spencer causes Asher to sprain his ankle. Spencer suggests that he, himself, take on both offense and defense. It's apparent that Spencer has begun to step on Jordan's and Asher's toes.

Before the Booster Party, the night has finally arrived for Spencer to get scouted, but he's quickly reminded of how much he doesn't fit in when all he has is a tracksuit instead of a business suit for the event. Luckily, Olivia finds one of her father's suits for Spencer to wear. During the Booster Party, Spencer still feels left out, so he clings to Olivia until Layla walks in. Later, Asher's father, Mr. Adams sizes Spencer up -- annoyed that his son can't play due to his sprained ankle. After taking a few "subtle" jabs and causing a scene, Mr. Adams drops the bomb about Spencer's residency. With everyone calm, Spencer, in an attempt to show off what he's made of, tries again to convince Billy to let him play both offense and defense in the next game.

At Beverly High, it's time for the game. But Spencer has injured ribs due to the scuffle with Shawn and it impairs his ability to play. Here, Spencer's pride becomes his worst enemy. Beverly High loses in the last four seconds when a not-so-talented play is called into the game and misses the winning catch. Later, after Jordan apologizes to him, Billy lets Spencer know that the family wants him to stay. They have a nice loving family dinner. [2]

Spencer and Jordan seem to have reconnected. While walking the halls of Beverly High, Spencer quickly realizes he is the center of attention. He notices everyone is staring at their phones and he asks a schoolmate for a look. On the screen is a meme of Spencer fumbling a "40 oz" of malt liquor, instead of the football. Racial tension rises in the hallway when Spencer sees Asher's friends watching him as well.

In an effort to better understand Spencer, Jordan invites himself to Spencer's house in Crenshaw. Spencer doesn't know about this until he sees Jordan's car parked outside. Inside, Spencer finds Jordan washing dishes while Grace prepares food for the evening's cookout. Jordan has crossed a line with Spencer, but Spencer's family is all open arms and invites him to stay for the gathering. While at the cookout, Spencer realizes that his old teammates no longer accept him since his move to Beverly Hills and now Jordan is a threat to Spencer's place among them. Spencer's supposed "friend" Chris calls Spencer a "joke" when Spencer tries to call a truce after a ruthless football game between Beverly Hills High and Crenshaw -- one that abruptly ended when the security guards showed up.

Jordan receives a startling wake up call when he and Spencer are harassed by police officers during their ride back to Beverly Hills. Spencer is very cooperative; however, Jordan has never experienced this and chooses to stand up for himself. The cops get more aggressive with Jordan and proceed to slam him on the pavement before handcuffing both he and Spencer. They finally make it back to the Baker's home in Beverly Hills. Spencer questions Billy as to why Jordan hasn't been taught how to deal with police officers.

At this point, Spencer really is an outcast and he's forced to choose a side, but he knows where he comes from. He apologizes to the Beverly Hills team the following day and convinces everyone to make amends -- even Asher. [3]

The Beverly Hills Eagles have reconciled after Spencer's much-needed apology, and their even bonding as a team. Spencer attends Asher's party. Spencer senses that Asher is acting strangely but can't put a finger on why. Olivia finally agrees to go but shortly after arriving she and Spencer are naked in a jacuzzi -- a dare brought on by Layla during a gambling game to get them together.

A continuation of the gambling game leads to an abrupt end when Asher loses his dad's porsche to one of his teammates, JJ, who then crashes it. Asher is desperate for a solution until Spencer offers to help. Asher is broke: the house isn't is, and neither is the car. Spencer gets the car repaired in Crenshaw for Asher, but it gets stolen. Spencer calls Coop, and she involves Shawn and now Spencer has to depend on Shawn for help. This time he helps Spencer and the car is returned to its home back in Beverly Hills. Spencer advises Asher to tell Layla about his financial problems.

Spencer confesses to his mother that he lost the cash that the coach gave him. She gives him some much needed advice. Back in Beverly Hills at the Baker's home, Spencer tells Billy that he doesn't want any more handouts and gets a job at a restaurant in Beverly Hills. [4]

It's Spencer's birthday but he's not even excited -- everyone else is. He wants to celebrate in Crenshaw, but Laura convinces him to have a party in Beverly Hills. Layla gives him field seats to a UCLA vs Eastern Nevada football game as a "thank you"/ birthday gift for helping Asher. Spencer tells her his father is the coach for the Houston team and he hasn't seen him in six years.

Spencer's party is going smoothly until Willy appears and the coach is pissed. Eventually, Willy creates a scene when he blurts out that Billy and Grace dated in high school. Spencer becomes pissed to the point that he leaves to confront his father at the UCLA/Eastern Nevada football game. Spencer is walking down a bus terminal and sees a man standing next to the Houston football team's bus. He's hopeful when he taps the man on the shoulder and asks for Corey James. It's not his father. Them man tells him that Corey stopped working for the Eastern Nevada football team and lives in LA.

The coach catches up with Spencer and basically says that he wants Spencer to be part of his family. Spencer reconciles with Grace; ready to let go of his father completely. [5]

During an impressive game against Culver City, Spencer looks into the stands and isn't happy that Coop is not there, he suspects that she is with Shawn.

After the game, Layla becomes annoyed with Asher when he starts talking about his father taking him in a private jet to go snorkeling. She leaves the table just when Spencer comes around to serve their food. JP praises Spencer for his performance and appreciates that he is from Crenshaw. JP is from Harlem. JP invites Spencer to hear Chynna's music that weekend, but he declines. Spencer mentions he's a volunteer at Alvin's Block Party. JP is impressed with Spencer.

After work, Spencer finds Coop hugged up with Patience, but their interaction is cut short when Shawn arrives and pulls Coop away for a job. Spencer is concerned and asks Patience about Coop's whereabouts but all she can say is Coop spends more time with Shawn. Spencer decides to come up with a plan to get Coop from under Shawn.

Everyone can tell Layla doesn't like Chynna. Spencer sees nothing for her to be concerned about, but Layla won't let it go. Spencer and Layla meet JP and Chynna for lunch. JP needs Alvin's permission to use his Block Party as a venue for Chynna's album release party. They ensure Spencer that it won't overshadow the Block Party, so Spencer agrees but only if Coop gets to MC.

Sadly, Alvin's Barbershop gets tagged and Spencer thinks Coop knows who did it. Spencer really doesn't want Coop and Shawn to be friends. Gunshots go off during Chynna's performance and everyone panics. Coop rushes to find Shawn. Spencer chases after Coop but scolds her when they find the members of the rival gang dead in the barbershop's parking lot as the police are investigating. Shawn has disappeared. Spencer tries to lecture Coop about Shawn but she leaves the scene to look for him anyway. Spencer confronts Shawn at his apartment and threatens him if Coop gets hurt. Spencer leaves but he doesn't know that Coop is already there.

In the restaurant, Layla praises Spencer for being real and she kisses him, then they make out. Olivia is in tears outside. [6]

Spencer has become more persistent on courting Layla.

Coop chastises Spencer and Chris for not enjoying themselves. Coop leaves Spencer and Chris to squash their beef. Spencer threatens Chris about Olivia but it doesn't phase Chris. He tells Spencer that Olivia has lingering feelings for him. [7]

Spencer gets dropped off in front of his home in Crenshaw in a limousine and sees Coop sitting on the front steps. He can tell something is wrong. Spencer and Coop review the outcomes of their evenings: Spencer decided not to date Layla; Coop found herself and Shawn on Tyrone's bad side when he plan to help Shawn went sour. The situation with Tyrone doesn't create a wider wedge in Spencer and Coop's friendship, instead they become closer.

The next morning, Spencer takes the blame for certain situations, but Grace reassures him that all he can do is make choices that will better his life and that he can't save everybody else.

Coop's back is against the wall and she turns to Spencer for help. Spencer reaches out to Laura, who is an attorney, and she tells them to snitch on Tyrone. Coop is not having it because she knows that's just asking to be killed. Spencer urges her to take the advice. At Shawn's apartment, Spencer tries to convince Shawn as well but he isn't too happy about it either.

During the Beverly High vs Malibu game, Billy realizes that Coach Scolnick has their plays. With no time to create new plays, he decides to use Crenshaw's. Spencer teams up with Chris, both orchestrating a win.

Later, after officially opening her heart up to Spencer, Layla appears at the Baker's house and in Spencer's room. Spencer finally admits his feelings for her.

Finally, after the coach receives an anonymous tip about a player on the Beverly Hills team using drugs, a random drug test is administered. Coach Skolnick attempts to turn Spencer against Billy by telling him that he can't be trusted and that Billy won't stop at anything until he gets what he wants. [8]

Personality [ ]

Spencer is very confident and defensive. He always stands his ground and stands up for what he believes in. He cares about his friends and family and will do anything to help them. Although he can be a bit stubborn, such as when he threw punches at Darnell when he showed up at his school, and when he played a football game when his shoulder wasn't in fully healed and ready, he always comes through in the end. He is very headstrong and always puts 100% into what he does. He also tends to blame himself for other people's problems and choices and thinks that he can save everyone when he really can't.

Spencer moving to Beverly Hills has changed him a lot. While living in Crenshaw his anger about his father abandoning him resulted in him constantly getting into fights and pushing away the people he loves, as shown in several flashbacks. He finally learns how to love and keep the people that are closest to him in his life.

He loves to earn things rather than having them given to him. He cares about his mother and his younger brother very much and was willing to go back and forth between Crenshaw and Beverly Hills just to see them. He cares about his neighborhood and the people in it. He is never willing to go down without a fight.

He is also humble to a fault. He dislikes talking about himself, even when self-promotion is necessary, or take time to celebrate his own accomplishments. In order to make himself feel more at ease, he even donated 25% of all revenue of the sales of his branded apparel back to the community for scholarships, community-focused sports, arts and educational camps. He also pledge to continue the deed even after college.

Physical Appearance [ ]

Spencer is tall and lean, but undersized by wide receiver's standards as he's under 6-feet tall. He has a very muscular body, really bulked in the shoulders and legs, as he plays Wide Receiver, but he started out as a running back, and also played as a gunner on special teams. He has dark skin and waves in his hair. He dresses often in jeans, denim and dark, with simple shirts and oversized hoodies or flannels. In recent episodes, Spencer has been seen in Crenshaw merchandise, referencing the town, The Slauson Cafe, and other well-known landmarks from the community.

Relationships [ ]

Tamia cooper [ ].

Coop is Spencer's best friend He is her "big brother" protector and after he gets an offer at Beverly High School, she encourages him to take it. She is very supportive of his dreams and vice versa. He encourages her to be proud of who she is and what she believes in. He also tries to keep her out of trouble when she joins a gang, and always know when to put her in her place, which she is equally willing to reciprocate.

Olivia Baker [ ]

Of all of his relationships in Beverly Hills, he developed the closest one with Olivia. When he first arrived, it appeared they had liked each other, but was quickly dismissed when she brushed him off because of Jordan's hunch. They developed a close friendship, always confiding in and are very understanding of each other. She always tries to keep him on the right track often a guiding light for him and his biggest supporter. They are the only people who can make each other feel safe. Their relationship changed once they admitted they were in love. Despite her being in recovery, they found a way to be together.

Layla Keating [ ]

Layla was Spencer's Crush When He First Arrived in Beverly Hills. When He First Met Her They instantly connected. They started dating after the homecoming game. their relationship was starting to hit a rocky point when she was struggling with her mental health spiraling quite a bit and it accelerated to a dangerous extreme, but because of her desperation to be able to support herself, she tried to keep him out of it. When she caught him and Olivia in her hotel room checking up on her when she had her spiral, she called off their relationship. After she went to rehab and realized Spencer had never done anything but try to her her they eventually become good friends not jumping back into their relationship until Layla Feels Along Enough in her recovery to focus on something other than herself. In Season 3 We See Them Finally Get Back Together Until Spencer Reveals What Happened Between him and Olivia in Vegas Last Summer, Which Ended Their Relationship For Good. 

Jordan Baker [ ]

Jordan is Spencer's former Beverly High teammate and one of his closest friends. They have had a rocky relationship in the beginning. He was initially jealous of Spencer because he felt as if he was taking up his father's attention, when Jordan wanted to resolve his own issues with his father, and felt ultimately overshadowed. There was a lot of petty conflict coming from unresolved tensions between Jordan and his father that put a strain on their teamwork, but eventually, Jordan and Spencer overcame that, building a brotherly bond.

Asher Adams [ ]

Asher was Spencer's rival at Beverly Hills when he first started there, and it continued in a semi-friendly way as their relationship grew. Asher hated that Spencer was into his girlfriend, Layla, a burning jealousy developing, mostly spawned from Spencer threatening his starting spot as Wide Receiver. When Spencer helped fix the car Asher busted during a house party, their relationship saw a turn for the better. Although as the show goes on Asher takes those extra steps to understand his frustrations and settle them and eventually befriends Spencer.

Dillon James [ ]

Dillon is Spencer's little brother. Due to the absence of their father, Spencer really feels the need to make up some ground towards Dillon, going above and beyond as his older brother. He is always there for Dillon and would do anything to keep him safe. Although their relationship is pretty stable, in One of Them Nights Dillon was upset with Spencer because he hasn't been around back home in such a long time and felt somewhat abandoned him, like his father. However, at the end of that episode, the two boys reconcile and Spencer makes sure he's apart of Dillon's life more consistently.

Grace James [ ]

Grace is Spencer's mother. They have a very close relationship as mother and son. She often pushes him to do what makes him happy and be proud of who he is, and not care what other people think stand in the way of that. He has great love and respect, as learnt his core values from her.

Laura Baker [ ]

Laura is a second mother figure to him, and they have a surprisingly stable relationship. She is very kind to him and treats him like a second son. After finding out that Billy had an affair with his mother, Spencer moved out of the Baker household because he didn't want to mess up Laura's life. However, Laura told Spencer that their drama had nothing to do with him and that that they all love him and she was welcome to him coming back to her house. He has not deigned to leave until Season 3, where he moved back to Crenshaw to help save the local high school.

Billy Baker [ ]

Billy first met Spencer at a Crenshaw football game. He offered Spencer a spot at Beverly Hills, which he initially declined, but encouragement from his mother pushed him to accept. Billy somewhat acted as the father figure Spencer didn't remember having in many ways. Along with Billy moving Spencer into his home, he treats Spencer like a second son. Their friendship deepens the more they interact. Spencer and Billy have a ride-or-die relationship, and though they have had their disagreements, they still have a bond over the game and people they love.

After his passing and once Spencer went to the NFL, he wore Billy's old no. 22.

• Daniel Ezra is British, he had no prior knowledge or skills about American football. His true British accent was heard prominently near the end of Next Episode when Spencer was challenged by Olivia to recite Romeo and Juliet in Received Pronunciation.
• He's ambidextrous, Spencer Paysinger is also left-handed
• Baking is one of his hobbies.
• Spencer's major in college was not disclosed until Season 6 by Coop . He majors in psychology.
• On Victory Lap : Spencer James was drafted by New York Bobcats. In reality: Spencer Paysinger went undrafted, but he was signed by New York Giants as an undrafted free agent.

Gallery [ ]

Appearances [ ]

References [ ]

• ↑ " Pilot "
• ↑ " 99 Problems "
• ↑ " Lose Yourself "
• ↑ " All We Got "
• ↑ " The Choice Is Yours "
• ↑ " California Love "
• ↑ " Homecoming "
• 1 Spencer James
• 2 Billy Baker
• 3 Jordan Baker

All American RECAP: Episode 13 ‘Legacy’

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Finally, finally, finally. I’m jumping straight into the meat of this week’s episode of All American . After all of this time, Cory James (Chad L. Coleman) finally graces us with his presence! It happens during the final game of the season and it paralyzes Spencer. He can’t focus on the game and he keeps messing up all over the field. Meanwhile, Jordan still can’t win the approval of Baker.

It all started with one little essay titled, “Who Influences You The Most?” Since football is Spencer’s claim to high school stardom, his natural instinct was to pick renowned football star, Deion “Prime Time” Sanders. It backfired and his English teacher, Mr. Vega (Rigo Sanchez), faced him with the task of writing it over if he wanted to play in the playoff against Logan High. Vega tells Spencer that football isn’t what he’s destined for. Unable to find a clear answer, Spencer began asking around, especially after JJ admitted to writing his paper about Dwayne Johnson.

Spencer felt like everyone he knew had a significant influence and he started to lose faith as the playoff drew closer. On the other hand, I think Jordan really struggled with contentment, which is defined as being in a state of happiness about your current situation. Contentment is so subtle and may only be recognized by drastic changes. Spencer shook things up for Jordan and it swayed Baker’s attention. Truth be told, I think Baker never felt like Jordan could be a star.

Now, with Willie in the picture, Jordan is always in a bad mood and confronts Baker often. When Willie confessed that he called Cory to distract Spencer during the game, it felt bittersweet because Jordan didn’t win Baker’s validation on his own. Without knowing that, Jordan still didn’t receive the praise he hoped for.

On this episode, I also thought Tyrone’s friend, Preach (Kareem J. Grimes), plans to kill Coop. He’s very gloomy and mysterious like he never smiled a day in his life. Coop tried to be nice and friendly but he dismissed her immediately. While they were making drops, Coop started to create allies but Preach stayed on her tail. Before he dropped her off for the night, Coop asked about his time in jail and he told her that he read books about Greek mythology. Preach mentioned that the Greeks used to take their opponents down by building wooden horses from within. Coop agreed with the concept but Preach left her with the looming statement, “The Greeks weren’t as smart as they thought”. Tyrone doesn’t trust Coop so, Preach has to be a reinforcement.

Moreover, Grace has a new possible love interest which is her urban planning teacher, Micah. He’s nice but Grace will play hard to get.

Enough of everything else.

Cory finally decided to appear out of thin air. This entire season has been about you! Cory, did you just get released from jail? You looked like you lift weights all day long. So, you have Willie’s contact info? I’m confused. Willie has Cory’s direct number. Even Baker’s mouth dropped. Now, I really want to know why you left. I hope it doesn’t involve a whole other woman that you started a family with.

I’m more shocked that there wasn’t a confrontation with Baker. Now, that I think about it, Grace never showed any animosity or discomfort towards Willie. So, Cory’s reason must not be so bad?

Attention Writers!!! We’ve been waiting this entire season, please don’t deliver a lousy excuse from Cory. Thank you.

Who Influences You The Most?

Spencer’s essay pointed out that everyone influences him, even his father’s absence. I think all of us would agree that it takes a village to raise a child. Everyone leaves an impact on us whether or not we realize it. The trick is, applying what we learned to when and how we evolve. Sometimes the hard part is accepting that you can’t apply what you learned because you’re a different person. In some cases, they’re hard to let go so you can change. Life is challenging, but it works out if you keep trying.

The episode wrapped with Cory mysteriously waiting in Grace’s home for her. So, you have keys too, Cory? Are you purposely staying away? Then Spencer walks in a moment after Grace. Now, all three of them are together.

How do you feel about Corey?

All American airs Wednesdays on The CW at 9pmET

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All American Recap Episode 5: “All We Got”

Okay ladies and gents, you might be wishing for more or asking for it to be over. Personally, I had to walk away just to process this episode of All American: ‘All We Got’, when it left me feeling annoyed. The campaign for ‘Who’s Spencer’s Daddy?’ is making me impatient. This is the only thing keeping the show hanging on. Spencer’s invisible father is the star. Honestly, Grace could’ve already told Spencer the truth about his father. Please do not have us investing our time for nothing.Photo: Robert Voets/The CW — © 2018 The CW Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved Happy Birthday […]

All American RECAP Episode 15: ‘Best Kept Secret’

In this week’s All American episode, “Best Kept Secret,” the uncertainty about Cory’s presence has caused a ripple effect on everyone’s life. Since Cory’s return home, everyone’s world has turned more dramatically. Spencer keeps finding himself at the expense of things outside of his control. At the end of last week’s episode, Spencer presented three possible secrets that influenced Cory’s reason to return; 1) To seek revenge for Grace’s affair with Baker, 2) Spencer’s rise to football fame, or 3) He actually wanted a relationship with his sons. Uncertainty Each reason equally played a role in this episode. In my […]

All American Finale RECAP: ‘Championships’ 

Season one of All American ended with a bang. Now, we have to wait for the reveal of Dillon’s father. Will it be Cory or Baker? Grace has some explaining to do. I’m not making any predictions, and any word on a season two won’t be available until May. Until then, we’ll be waiting and binge-watching season one on Netflix starting March 31. “Win, win, win, win” In this episode, the Beverly Hills Eagles have made it to the state championships but their opponent is no other than South Crenshaw, Spencer’s previous football team. As usual, Spencer has a hard […]

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All American: What The CW Drama Gets Right About Sports, Race, and Class

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Who actually killed joel in elite season 8, why fans feel one episode of unsolved mysteries was wasted.

All American premiered in the fall of 2018 on The CW . The show is based on the real life experience of former football player Spencer Paysinger and centers on a group of teenagers at South Crenshaw High School and Beverly High School, as well as their coaches, parents, siblings, and communities. The difference between Crenshaw and Beverly Hills is stark despite only being roughly seven miles away from each other. All American depicts a case of the haves and the have-nots — but not in the way viewers might initially think. Sure, the kids from Beverly Hills have big houses, fancy cars, and plenty of disposable income, but the kids from Crenshaw have a sense of family, community, and integrity often missing from the more well-off teens.

All American stars Brit Daniel Ezra as Spencer James, a rising football star and excellent student from South Crenshaw High School who transfers to Beverly High to play for coach Billy Baker ( Taye Diggs ) and compete for the state championship. Baker is a former South Crenshaw (and college and NFL) star player who happened to know Spencer's parents in high school. Baker serves as the through-line from Crenshaw to Beverly Hills; because he grew up there, it isn't that odd that his kids (twins Olivia and Jordan) spend time there.

All American has had four seasons on the CW so far and the fifth season is set to premiere in October 2022. Right now, you can watch all four seasons of All American on Netflix.

All American is Based in the Life of Spencer Paysinger

All American is based on the life of former NFL player Spencer Paysinger. Paysinger grew up in South Los Angeles and, like the show's Spencer James, attended and played football at Beverly Hills High School. He was a wide receiver and linebacker who was named captain of the team. His uncle, Carter Paysinger, was the head football coach and his father Donald Paysinger was also a coach at Beverly. In college, Paysinger played for the University of Oregon, where he was also the captain during his senior year.

RELATED: These Are the Best Football Movies of All Time, Ranked

Paysinger signed with the NFL's New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He was part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning team during his rookie season, and played for four seasons with the Giants. In April 2015, he signed with the Miami Dolphins and played two seasons there. He was signed by the New York Jets in 2017 but cut before the regular season got underway, and signed with the Carolina Panthers right after in December 2017, playing three games before being cut. Paysinger retired from professional football at the end of 2017, and serves as consulting producer of All American . He also plays one of the assistant football coaches at Beverly Hills High School in the show.

All American Serves Up Teen Drama With a Side of Racism

During the first season of All American , Spencer James moves from Crenshaw to Beverly Hills to live with his estranged father's old high school teammate Billy Baker and his family. This allows Spencer more visibility as a student and football player at Beverly Hills High School. Throughout his first year in Beverly Hills, Spencer is faced with acts of stereotyping and racism. In one episode, one of his white teammates inquires whether Spencer is a Crip or a Blood. While Spencer is not in a gang and is a well-behaved, upstanding young man, his best friend, a lesbian aspiring rapper named Coop, does end up in a gang and committing some pretty atrocious acts.

The difference between Crenshaw and Beverly Hills is like night and day, and All American is very class-conscious in depicting the discrepancies. The more well-off kids go about their lives without a real care in the world. While the South Crenshaw and Beverly Hills students all have typical teen angst and drama, the kids in Crenshaw's teen drama literally live with life or death stakes at times. Where All American excels is in its ability to showcase the typical storylines about being a teenager , like relationships, first love, cheating, alcohol and drug use, etc. but with this sociopolitical perspective, reflecting class as well as the issues Black communities face.

Spencer's South Crenshaw Teammates Also Stereotype Him

When Spencer transfers to Beverly Hills, his former teammates at South Crenshaw High Scholl also stereotype him and accuse him of abandoning their community for the wealthier enclave in Los Angeles. They believe Spencer turned his back on them and their community so that he and he alone could get a leg up in the world. As a result, Spencer doesn't feel fully at home or accepted anywhere outside his mother's house and coach Baker's house — which are two very different places. His mom's house is a small bungalow she shares with Spencer and his younger brother. Coach Baker lives in an enormous mansion with his white wife (Monet Mazur) and his bi-racial teenagers.

Spencer James is an All American Savior

Throughout the four seasons of All American to date, Spencer James has a giant savior complex. He feels guilty because of the opportunity he has to live and attend school in Beverly Hills. He worries about his mother Grace and younger brother Dillion, and he tries to save Coop from gang involvement (and ultimately herself). He tries to save Layla from her depression and anxiety and Olivia from her drug and alcohol abuse. He tries to save his Crenshaw community from gang violence and the threat of developers trying to gentrify the neighborhood. He is constantly putting other people and their needs and issues above himself, which at times feels like a waste of his true talents on the gridiron and in the classroom.

RELATED: The Top 12 Black Movies of 2021

Spencer's character is also written to be a superhero. He moves to a new house in a new neighborhood with a new family. He gets a job as a waiter. He doesn't have a car, but he commutes between the two neighborhoods seamlessly. He's trying to forge a relationship with his estranged father while being a good example to his younger brother and being the man of the house for his mother. He also has to learn a whole new football playbook with his new team and make the switch from offense to defense.

Spencer's Crenshaw family and friends want him to not forget where he's from while grabbing every opportunity he can in Beverly Hills. Spencer is an empathetic character — almost too empathetic. He tries to be everything to everybody and no one can succeed at that for long.

This Show About Football Isn't Really About Football

All American is loosely based on the life of an actual football player, but in the show, football takes a back seat to the racial tension and class issues at the heart of this drama. All American isn't about football, it is about growing up and finding your way in the world. It is about not living in a bubble. Spencer's South Crenshaw and Beverly Hills friends eventually come together — but not without a lot of clichés and mudslinging on both sides.

All American features a mostly Black cast and dives into racial issues that affect the Black community, including gang violence and its fallout, the mistreatment of Black people in healthcare, racial profiling, police brutality, reverse racism, other forms of discrimination, and what happens to kids when their lives don't leave them with any opportunities. All American isn't afraid to go there and talk about the tough issues or other things many television networks might consider "too controversial" (which is often code for not white or cisgender enough). All American may be just another teen drama, but it is head and shoulders above the pack of its genre and dealing with real issues.

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How All American explores the experiences of Black youth in America

“We get to talk about the spectrum of Black experiences as opposed to just one particular Black experience," All American showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll tells EW.

All American is scoring on and off the field.

For two seasons, the football drama has been telling stories about a myriad of Black experiences. Ahead of the necessary conversation about representation in Hollywood last year, the CW darling has been covering a lot of ground while telling the story of teen athlete Spencer James' ( Daniel Ezra ) dreams of playing in the NFL. While balancing the joy and stark realities of being Black in America, the drama has been doing the inclusive storytelling that many hope to see more of.

Based on the story of NFL player Spencer Paysinger, All American follows a young athlete straddling two worlds. "Yes, it is also a football show, but it's truthfully a show about the Black youth experience in America, and [Spencer] just happens to be a football player," showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll explains to EW. While he's from Crenshaw, Calif., Spencer goes to a Beverly Hills high school for a better shot at going pro. All American is not a show about someone who leaves their home behind to secure their future — he maintains his roots in both places, allowing the show to tell a wide variety of stories.

On a personal level, All American is a dream for Carroll. While the showrunner is able to bring her lived experience to the screen, the series has also resonated with her sons, the oldest of whom is a young athlete. "For him to be able to see his world represented on screen, and not in a passive way, but as the hero of the story," Carroll shares, "the effects of that are priceless."

When it premiered in 2018, All American was very different from the CW's other shows. The football drama is more similar to 90210 and Gossip Girl — and even then, only just in its high school setting — than the superhero and supernatural fare currently on the network. Carroll was not surprised that it took some time for people to find the drama, but she was also confident that the audience was out there. "My son is part of that audience, his friends are part of that audience, I'm part of that audience," she explains. "The me that grew up on the original Beverly Hills, 90210 , and One Tree Hill and Dawson's Creek — we were starved for a show like that with people that look like us."

The Netflix factor was a massive help to All American . The first season debuted on the streamer shortly after its finale in March 2019, allowing even more people to find it. As a result of the increased exposure, many viewers tuned into the CW for the show's second season instead of waiting for it to also hit Netflix, according to Carroll. (There's been a gradual build from streaming platforms and the CW app, in addition to the show's traditional weekly broadcasts.)

In telling stories of the Black youth experience in America, All American balances the good and the bad. "It's the Black boy joy and then the slap back to reality when they have a run-in with a police officer," Carroll explains. "Or having a run-in with someone who just sees them as something to be fearful of as opposed to a whole fully-realized human being." The result is tackling the reality of the Black youth experience authentically and fully.

The in-depth approach to its storytelling becomes clear early in its run. During the third episode of season 1 "i," the first episode written by a then-co-executive producer Carroll, police pull over Spencer and his Beverly Hills friend Jordan Baker (Michael Evans Behling), who's driving and gets a reality check when he talks back to the officer. Spencer watches his new teammate learn that his privilege would not protect him. When the teens get back to the Baker household, viewers see Spencer ask Jordan's dad Billy ( Taye Diggs ) why he never had "the talk" with his son, and Billy admits he thought his success would keep them safe. "Being able to go home and really sit with the trauma and sit with a real conversation that families have to have, that my husband and I have to have with our sons, being allowed to do that on TV was unbelievable," Carroll recalls.

"We get to talk about the spectrum of Black experiences as opposed to just one particular Black experience," Carroll says. For instance, Layla Keating (Greta Onieogou) was at the center of a substantial mental-health story line. It wasn't a "one-episode PSA of teen struggle," but an season-long arc where she slowly unraveled, showing what the signs look like, the impact it has on loved ones, and then, ultimately, her choice to enter a mental health rehabilitation center. Carroll says in her TV-watching experience, many stories about mental health featuring Black characters don't live beyond an episode, or it's used to give a character some edge. ( This Is Us and She's Gotta Have It join All American as a few shows telling more expansive arcs). "Our community has such a love-hate relationship with mental illness, and therapy, and what all of that means. I wanted to personalize it for everyone," Carroll says. "If that means we saved the kid's life somewhere along the way, or we helped a parent understand what was going on with their teen along the way, then we did our job."

With events like the cotillion that Olivia Baker ( Samantha Logan ) attends in season 2, All American brings the joy of the Black youth experience to life. Viewers get to watch Olivia's journey with social justice through her podcast and joining the SoLa Muse organization, hard work that is celebrated during a cotillion and a memorable dance sequence featuring many of the show's characters. Black cotillion is a real thing, something not shown on TV and an event that even people working on the episode didn't know existed. "It's also such a beautiful celebration of our youth," Carroll explains, "I wanted to show that it's more than a party." The event was fun but doubled as a reminder of Olivia's hard work, and by extension, celebrated those who participate in debutante balls.

All American will keep all the trappings of senior year of high school and teenage life in its new season, maintaining its balance of fun and hard realities. "We feel a responsibility to portray the joy and the resilience," Carroll explains. "It's important to us that they get to still be kids on the show even with everything going on." Season 2 ended with everyone separating for summer vacation, and the show will return with a "summer secrets" arc in its first half, secrets that will have fallout for seasons to come.

One thing viewers should not expect to see in season 3 is the pandemic. Even though the show has often tackled timely issues — Nipsey Hustle's murder and changes within the athletic world, for example — All American will forgo anything related to COVID-19 to keep in line with the story of Paysinger's life and the fact that Spencer is entering his senior year. The new season will examine what seniors put themselves through when they are trying to go to a Division 1 school with eyes on a career in the NFL. The pressure, high stakes, and competition are all made potentially more complicated by Spencer's previous shoulder injury, as viewers saw in the closing moments of the season 2 finale. To ensure safety during filming, a bubble was formed, like the NBA did for its season, and the football game scenes will be shot in two batches. The first half has already been shot, with the second half planned for this spring.

While the pandemic won't be part of the new season, another major real-life event of 2020 will. Breanna Taylor and George Floyd's tragic deaths resulted in an international response last year, but in February — even before all of the social unrest and Black Lives Matter protests — writers pitched an arc involving Black people's experiences with police. Carroll teases that it will "personally relate" to the characters, including District Attorney Laura Baker ( Monet Mazur ) and Olivia. "We're still reliving all of these things we wish as a society [our] kids weren't still experiencing," Carroll says. "So much of that was already in the fabric of our show."

Floyd's death by police was a catalyst for conversations about change in many areas, even outside of criminal justice reform. It extended to Hollywood, where, in the months that followed, there's been a focus on the lack of representation across film and television, with many sharing support for more inclusive storytelling. Carroll is hopeful that this becomes more than a moment and says she's excited to see what the next few years deliver. "My hope is we're giving storytellers who are telling authentic stories a real shot and not replacing the race of characters, but really deeply diving into better representation across the board."

And that push for inclusivity extends beyond the Black community, according to the All American showrunner. Indigenous writers and actors, Latinx, and LGBTQ communities also need better representation. "The onus is on all of us, especially those of us that are in positions of power, to continue to use our power and our privilege to make sure that needle keeps moving forward," Carroll adds. "I need to be making sure that I'm using my position to create additional openings for storytellers like me across the board."

Season 3 of All American premieres Monday, Jan. 18 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on The CW.

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Another One Bites the Dust! All American Loses Original Cast Member Ahead of Season 7

Kelsey Lentz

Tuesday, June 25th, 2024

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All American is losing another key cast member. Daniel Ezra, who stars as Spencer James, is exiting the CW football drama after Season 6 concludes this July. So, why is Daniel Ezra leaving All American and what will happen with his character? Here’s everything we know about the British actor’s departure and the future of the show.

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Why is daniel ezra leaving all american .

According to our sister site Deadline , Daniel Ezra will be leaving All American as a series regular following Season 6, but he is expected to make guest appearances throughout Season 7. The outlet reported that his exit was a creative decision made by both Ezra and showrunner Nkechi Okoro Carroll ahead of Season 6, which kicked off on April 1, 2024.

“After making the difficult decision to leave  All American , my sole focus became completing the journey of the most life-affirming character I’ve ever played in the manner he deserves. Thanks to Nkechi and the writers, I got my wish. Season six is ‘Spencer’s goodbye.’ I’ll miss him. I’ll miss our cast and crew. I hope it’s been as fun to watch him as it has been to play him,” Ezra said in a statement.

Ezra has led the show as football super star Spencer James since Season 1. The series originally followed his journey from South L.A. to Beverly Hills, where he played high school football for Coach Baker (Taye Diggs). The past few seasons have focused on his and his teammates’ experiences playing college ball at the fictional Golden Angeles University. Off-screen, Ezra’s role on the show has evolved as well. The British actor has stepped behind the camera to direct a number of episodes and he will continue to do so in future seasons. 

News of Ezra’s exit comes on the heels of Season 6’s “Victory Lap,” which saw Spencer finally get drafted into the NFL. It also featured a time jump, where Spencer played in the Super Bowl and proposed to his girlfriend Olivia Baker (Samantha Logan). The remaining two episodes of the season will reportedly focus on Spencer and Olivia planning their wedding.

“Partnering with Daniel Ezra over the last six seasons to bring Spencer’s story to life has been such an amazing, fulfilling, experience. Daniel truly is a gift and brought so much to the character on and off the field,” Okoro Carroll said in a statement, adding: “And while Spencer has achieved his NFL dreams, I’m grateful Daniel will still remain an important part of this family, both in front of and behind the camera as we step into a new, exciting chapter of All American .”

The casting shakeup also follows the cancelation of its only spin-off , All American: Homecoming , and rumors of budget cuts for Season 7, though Ezra’s exit was allegedly not related to financial concerns.

All American earned an early renewal for Season 7 in June 2024, but fans are now questioning how it will go on without Ezra and what future casting changes can be expected. The show has already lost Diggs, who played an integral character for the first five seasons. In the Season 5 episode “Time,” Billy Baker was tragically killed during a bus crash, leaving both his family and fans devastated. It’s unclear if his kids, Olivia and Jordan (Michael Evans Behling), will remain on the show past Season 6, but with Spencer’s departure looming, we can expect that Olivia will also be reduced to a recurring or guest role.

For more on primetime shows, check out this gallery on your favorite primetime stars’ real-life partners . 

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<p><em>Chicago Med’s</em> <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/673125/nick-gehlfuss-wife/">Nick Gehlfuss is married to Lilian Matsuda</a>, the Director of Advocacy for the Illinois Action for Children, which provides support and resources for childcare and early learning programs. We couldn’t find information about how the couple met, but we know that they have been dating since Gehlfuss started on <em>Chicago Med</em> eight years ago. In May 2016, Gehlfuss told <em><a href="https://people.com/tv/nick-gehlfuss-marries-lilian-matsuda/">People</a> </em>that he and Matsuda eloped in a “big wedding in Ohio.” The pair has one child together –but we don’t know the child’s name or when they were born – as the couple has chosen to keep their family life out of the public eye.</p>

<p><em>Fire Country’s</em> <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/668122/max-thieriot-wife/">Max Thieriot is married to Lexi Murphy</a>, who is a private figure and currently works for the actor’s winery. The couple met when they were teenagers on vacation in the Caribbean and were high school sweethearts. (Check out this <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BGIM6BVN6tc/">throwback photo</a> of them together attending the junior prom.) He proposed to Lexi in 2012 in the Caribbean, where they first met, and they got married one year later in June 2013 in Arizona. “Best weekend of my life. Married the most beautiful and amazing woman in the entire world,” <a href="https://twitter.com/maxthieriot/status/341719695147286528">he tweeted</a> after the  ceremony. The couple have two kids together: Beaux Thieriot (age 7) and Maximus Thieriot (age 4).</p>

<p><em>FBI</em> frontrunner <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/668488/missy-peregrym-husband/">Missy Peregrym is married to Australian actor Tom Oakley</a> (<em>American Horror Story</em> and <em>Black Comedy</em>). They tied the knot on December 30, 2019, in Los Angeles, California. “It was an intimate and fun evening shared with family and close friends,” a source told <a href="https://people.com/tv/missy-peregrym-marries-tom-oakley/"><em>People</em></a> at the time, adding that, “of course,” Peregrym’s Goldendoodle, Charly, was included in her wedding. Missy and Tom welcomed their first son, Otis Paradise Oakley, on March 21, 2020, and their daughter, Mela Joséphine Oakley, two years later on June 6, 2022. The actress took her second maternity leave from<em> FBI </em>at the end of Season 4 to the beginning of Season 5.</p>

<p><em>Chicago Fire’s</em> <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/669576/david-eigenberg-wife/">David Eigenberg’s wife is Chrysti Eigenberg</a>, a private figure who has largely remained out of the public eye aside from a few appearances with her husband. The couple met in 2001 at a gala event in Virginia. In an interview with <em><a href="https://www.theday.com/movies--tv/20211017/david-eigenberg-on-his-long-journey-to-chicago-fire/">The Day</a> </em>in October 2021, the actor said he fell in love with her instantly. “It just hit me at the core,” he told the platform. He added that meeting her allowed him to “commit … to being engaged with somebody else.” He proposed to Chrysti a few months after they started dating, and they tied the knot at the Russian Samovar in Manhattan in 2002. David and Chrysti welcomed their first child, Louie Steven Eigenberg, in January 2009, and their daughter, Myrna Belle Eigenberg, in January 2014.</p>

<p><em>Chicago P.D.’s</em> Jesse Lee Soffer is currently single, but the actor has dated two primetime stars in the One Chicago universe. <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/669619/why-sophia-bush-jesse-lee-soffer-break-up/">Soffer and his <em>Chicago P.D. </em>costar, Sophia Bush</a>, broke up in June 2015 after almost a year of dating, according to <a href="https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/sophia-bushs-dating-history/"><em>Us Weekly</em></a>. They first met on the set of Chicago-based drama and started seeing each other shortly after the first season came out in 2014. A few years later in 2018, Soffer was romantically linked with <em>Chicago Med</em> star Torrey DeVitto, who portrays Dr. Natalie Manning. DeVitto confirmed the relationship when she shared a photo of the pair vacationing in Scotland in August 2018. Soffer told <a href="https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/jesse-lee-soffer-confirms-torrey-devitto-relationship/"><em>Us Weekly</em></a> in September 2018 that his relationship with DeVitto was going well. “It’s great. It’s awesome,” the actor said. But the relationship was short-lived. <a href="https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/torrey-devitto-jesse-lee-soffer-split-after-8-months/"><em>Us Weekly</em></a> reported in May 2019 that <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/676124/why-jesse-lee-soffer-torrey-devitto-break-up/">Soffer and DeVitto broke up</a> after just eight months together. </p>

<p><em>The Good Doctor’s</em> <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/gallery/good-doctor-cast-dating/">Richard Schiff has been married to his wife</a>, actress Sheila Kelley, since 1996. The pair met in the early ‘90s before their respective TV careers had taken off. They share two children together: son Gus, born in 1994, and daughter Ruby, born in 2000. In addition to starring in <em>L.A. Law</em>, <em>Sisters</em> and <em>Lost</em>, Kelly played a very special role as Schiff’s love interest in<em> The Good Doctor.</em> She portrayed Debbie Wexler, a former barista at St. Bonaventure Hospital who was formerly married to Schiff’s character, Aaron Glassman. We first saw Debbie on the show in Season 1, when she developed a relationship with Glassman. They got married in Season 3, but by Season 4, Debbie walked out on Dr. Glassman right before his home burned down.</p>

<p><em>Yellowstone </em>favorite <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/gallery/photos-yellowstone-actors-real-life-partners/kelly-reilly-kyle-baugher-getty-images/">Kelly Reilly has been married to Kyle Baugher</a>, a financier, since 2012. The couple tied the knot in Somerset, England. The pair met in 2012 and were engaged and married in the same year. Before Kelly, Reilly was engaged to actor Jonah Lotan (<em>24, The Jacket, Generation Kill</em>) from 2007 to 2009. The English actress and her husband currently live in New York City, although she has said that “England is always home.” “I suffered terrible homesickness at first—for English people, pubs, humor, all my family and friends—but I love New York, it’s my favorite city,” she told <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/theobserver/2011/jan/02/kelly-reilly-above-suspicion-interview"><em>The Guardian</em></a> in 2014.</p>

<p><em>Law & Order: SVU </em>and <em>Organized Crime</em> star Christopher Meloni has been married to production designer Sherman Williams since 1995. In October 2022, Meloni revealed to <a href="https://people.com/tv/christopher-meloni-reveals-secret-to-his-27-year-marriage-to-wife-sherman-williams/"><em>People</em></a> the secret to his 27-year marriage to his wife. “It’s her patience with me, and I really mean that. She’s allowed me to grow at my speed, because she’s always been more mature and more levelheaded in many ways,” he stated. “She paints and I go in her studio, and it just makes me happy. We have her work all over the house. She wants to buy art, and I’m like, ‘I don’t want that. I want yours.'” Meloni and Williams welcomed two children, a girl and a boy, in 2001 and 2004, respectively.</p>

<p><em>9-1-1: Lone Star</em> actor Rob Lowe has been married to makeup artist Sheryl Berkoff since 1991. The couple met on a blind date in 1983 and reunited again on the set of Lowe’s 1990 film <em>Bad Influence</em>. The pair share two sons, Matthew Edward Lowe (age 29) and John Owen Lowe (age 27). Recently, in April 2023, Lowe spoke about his over 30-year marriage to Berkoff in the iHeartPodcast, <a href="https://www.iheart.com/podcast/867-table-for-two-105373224/episode/rob-lowe-112203910/">Table for Two with Bruce Bozzi</a>. “[Marriage] is hard anywhere, it is not just Hollywood – it’s everywhere,” he told the host, Bruce Bozzi. “Sheryl was and is my best friend. So if you marry for anything other than the fact that is your best friend, you’re at a disadvantage from the jump, because that will sustain when the other stuff ebbs and flows.” He added that forgiveness allows a relationship to move forward: “People say marriage takes work. I’m not sure if it takes work, but what it does take is forgiveness, and being really cognizant of what hill you’re willing to die on.”</p>

<p>Although <em>The Rookie’s</em> <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/669303/nathan-fillion-dating/">Nathan Fillion has proposed multiple times to three different women</a>, he’s never been married and is currently single. In an interview with <a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/sex-and-love/a19984933/nathan-fillion-interview/"><em>Women’s Health</em></a> in September 2010, when asked what his exes would say about him if they were all together in one room, he responded, “Oh, boy. I’m still in touch with about 90 percent of my exes… They would describe me as being unlucky in love.” Fillion was previously in relationships with model Krista Allen and actresses Christina Ocha, Mikaela Hoover, Perrey Reeves and Vanessa Marcil.</p>

<p><em>Blue Bloods’</em> <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/668982/tom-selleck-children/">Tom Selleck is married to British actress Jillie Mack</a>. He was first introduced to Mack when she starred in <em>Cats in the West End</em> in 1984. Selleck told <em><a href="https://www.aarp.org/entertainment/style-trends/info-2015/tom-selleck-aarp-magazine.html">AARP</a> </em>in November 2015 that he’d met Mack backstage at the show, but had to build up the confidence to ask her out. “She had to go on [stage]. I was hemming and hawing, and she finally asked, ‘Do you want to meet for a cocktail?’” The couple got married in August 1987, and to keep their wedding private, they only allowed Polaroid photos at the wedding. In 1987, Tom Selleck adopted Kevin Selleck (originally born “Kevin Shepard”), his ex-wife Jacqueline’s son from a previous relationship. He has one daughter, Hannah Margaret Selleck (age 34), with his current wife.</p>

<p><em>9-1-1</em> powerhouse Angela Bassett is married to her husband and fellow actor Courtney B. Vance. Vance has starred in<em> Law & Order, Scandal, Revenge</em>, the FX limited series <em>The People v. O. J. Simpson: American Crime Story</em> and more. The pair have known each other for a long time. According to <a href="https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/celebs/a42027306/angela-bassett-husband-courtney-b-vance/"><em>Cosmo</em></a>, they both attended the Yale School of Drama in the ‘80s. They got married on October 12, 1997, and had fraternal twins, Bronwyn Golden Vance and Slater Josiah Vance, in January 2006, via surrogate.</p>

<p><em>Yellowstone</em> favorite <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/gallery/yellowstone-cast-children/">Cole Hauser has been married</a> to former actress and model Cynthia Daniel since December 22, 2006. Not much is known about how the couple first met. His wife, who is known for playing Elizabeth Wakefield in the ‘90s series <em>Sweet Valley High</em>, is currently a photographer with her own company, <a href="http://www.fivearrowsphotography.com/">Five Arrows Photography</a>. The duo have three children together. They had their eldest Ryland Hauser in 2004, Colt Hauser in 2008 and their youngest and only daughter, Steely Hauser, in 2013.</p>

<p><em>Law & Order: SVU</em> actor and rapper <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/gallery/law-and-order-svu-cast-children/4-ice-t-kids/">Ice-T is currently married to model Coco Austin</a>. During a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BgFt2Yc3SY&t=23s">2017 interview</a> with Mario Lopez, he revealed that the pair first met on the set of a music video. He recalled asking her, “‘Would you ever consider dating a gangster rapper?’ “to which she responded that she would if he was nice. “I said, ‘Well, baby, if you take the ‘n’ off ‘nice’, you get ‘Ice,’ ” he recounted. They did long distance before officially getting married on January 1, 2002, at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas. “We got married pretty fast,” Coco wrote on her blog at the time, according to <a href="https://people.com/tv/ice-t-coco-austin-relationship-timeline/"><em>People</em></a>. “He became my best friend and this instantly was someone I didn’t want to live without. We just knew we wanted to be together, we were like yin and yang, like peanut butter and jelly. LOL.”</p>

<p><em>S.W.A.T.</em> lead <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/669101/shemar-moore-children/">Shemar Moore is dating his girlfriend</a>, Jesiree Dizon, who is an actress and model. We weren’t introduced to Dizon until after the actor announced that they were expecting his first child together. On T<em>he Jennifer Hudson Show</em> in January 2023, Moore announced that he is having his first child. He later <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CnM0srUqCuC/">posted a video</a> of the sex reveal party on January 9, 2023, where he also introduced the world to Dizon. His girlfriend’s appeared on various TV shows, including <em>True Blood, Hawaii Five-O</em> and the soap opera <em>Days of Our Lives</em>. Now, she’s a makeup artist who started her own company. Her Instagram profile. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/j_birdbeauty/">@j_birdbeauty</a>, is dedicated to her business.</p>

<p>The former <em>Chicago P.D.</em> actress is married to Grant Hughesin, an entrepreneur who co-founded Focus Motion, a machine-learning software company. The couple tied the knot in June 2022 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, at the City County Clerk’s Office. Bush shared photos from her engagement in Lake Como, Italy, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sophiabush/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=3fca9718-57bd-4fa9-b63d-491c05b19966">on Instagram</a>. “So it turns out that being your favorite person’s favorite person is the actual best feeling on planet Earth #YES,” she wrote in the caption. Bush <a href="https://soaps.sheknows.com/soaps/news/669619/why-sophia-bush-jesse-lee-soffer-break-up/">previously dated her Chicago P.D. costar</a>, Jesse Lee Soffer, who played Detective Jay Halstead. The couple split in June 2015 after almost a year of dating, according to <a href="https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/sophia-bushs-dating-history/"><em>Us Weekly.</em></a></p>

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An NFL player had an idea. Now it's a TV show with Taye Diggs.

LOS ANGELES -- It's a typical work day in Florham Park, New Jersey. Spencer Paysinger , a Super Bowl-champion linebacker, needs to prepare for another New York Jets practice, but something else consumes him on this midweek morning in August 2017. Warner Bros. executives are back in Los Angeles trying to sell a show -- his show -- to the networks, and Paysinger must scramble to produce a three-minute pitch video to seal the deal.

Paysinger convinces one of the assistant trainers, Ezron Bryson, to let him borrow Bryson's office for five minutes, then props his tablet on a pile of books and begins speaking into it. Five minutes quickly turn to 15, then suddenly 20. Paysinger can see the large digital clock on the weight-room wall continuing to tick down, knowing he will pay a $5,000 fine if it reaches zero and he's late to practice.

Thirty minutes have now elapsed. Players start scrambling out of the room. Bryson taps on the glass wall with noticeable urgency. Thirty minutes turn to 45.

Finally, Paysinger finds his rhythm. He begins by telling his imaginary audience that the central character of this potential TV series isn't rooted in fiction but inspired by the living, breathing football player sitting before them. He talks about the struggle of his adolescence and how, in spite of it, he is still here, in the NFL, living out his dreams, better for it all.

Then Paysinger jolts.

He rushes into an empty Jets locker room, grabs his jersey and a pair of pads, slips on one shoe, sprints down the hall and makes it onto the grass while his teammates stretch, finally exhaling with only seconds remaining on the giant clock.

"My heart was racing," Paysinger says now, "but I played it off like I had been there the whole time."

'It's a real story'

Paysinger, retired from the NFL since the start of the calendar year, is the inspiration behind The CW show "All American," which airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET and stars Taye Diggs and Daniel Ezra.

The drama series uses fictional names and takes some creative liberties, but it stands as a direct snapshot to the juxtaposition of Paysinger's adolescence -- a star athlete from a rough neighborhood in South Central L.A. who played high school football in the affluence of Beverly Hills and didn't seem to fit in either place.

Those who led the charge on this show -- people named Peter Roth, Robbie Rogers, Greg Berlanti and Dane Morck, among others -- used Paysinger's video to begin every pitch meeting.

It probably never happens without it.

"It's a real story, it's inspired by a true story, and so it's good to put a face to that story," Rogers said. "Hearing it from Spencer himself was very important."

Transitioning to life after the NFL

Paysinger never planned to play in the NFL beyond the age of 30. He overcame the drugs and violence of his hometown to earn a scholarship to Oregon, then landed with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2011 -- the lockout year -- and contributed on special teams for a team that won it all.

Four years with the Giants led to two years with the Miami Dolphins , followed by a training camp stint with the Jets, a three-month layoff, a three-week stretch with the Carolina Panthers and, on Dec. 29, 2017, the release that sent him into retirement.

"I remember sitting in my locker that day, packing all my stuff, smiling," said Paysinger, who turned 30 in June. "I never wanted football to be my highest peak."

Paysinger admittedly can't sit still for very long. He managed to do so long enough to grab coffee in West L.A. earlier this summer and talked about how retirement always "scared me to death," a fear that pushed him to create the type of safety net that eludes most NFL players.

Paysinger once attended the Athlete Transition U business combine in New York City, then sent a letter to commissioner Roger Goodell and executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent, urging the NFL to adopt the five-day crash course.

Paysinger is officially a consulting producer on "All American," but he also opened a coffee shop in his neighborhood, Hilltop Café, and helps run an investment fund called Afterball LLC, which aims to help football players find themselves after their playing careers suddenly end.

"It's a form of PTSD that athletes go through after sports," said former Pro Bowl tight end Martellus Bennett, a friend of Paysinger's who has found his niche by creating a cartoon series for kids. "You have to think about it like -- that is their life's work up until that point. Like, you've been training from a young age, college, you go to college with the idea of going to the NFL, you make it, you get your dream job at 21, and then your dream job spits you out at 25. And then what?"

'I want it to be a career'

Paysinger's biggest passion is screenwriting, a love that began before high school, when he and his uncle would burn six hours every Friday and Saturday at the movies. Paysinger remembers the stress of his rookie season and how a trip to the cinema would quickly put him at ease. It became a routine. Every Tuesday, he went to the movies by himself.

Paysinger began writing his own material in 2014. He downloaded the scripts for his favorite movies -- the first was "Pulp Fiction," the second was "Pineapple Express" -- and studied the way writers crafted their stories. He began watching movies with subtitles, downloaded script-writing software, looked into UCLA classes and even began a website, cutandpays.com , to house his rough ideas.

"I don't want this to be one shot," Paysinger said. "I don't want this to be, 'Hey, you're the guy who had that one show. What are you doing now?' I want it to be a career."

An idea comes to life

The process for "All American" began in 2015, when one of Paysinger's friends, former NFL tight end Schuylar Oordt , introduced him to his roommate, Morck, who at that point was still trying to find himself as a producer. They met at an apartment complex in Mar Vista, California, during Paysinger's bye week in October and hit it off when they realized they played against each other in a big rivalry game between Beverly Hills and Palos Verdes Peninsula high schools.

When Morck asked what it was like growing up in Beverly Hills, Paysinger corrected him.

"I don't want this to be one shot. I don't want this to be, 'Hey, you're the guy who had that one show. What are you doing now?' I want it to be a career." Paysinger, whose new show "All American" airs Wednesday at 9 p.m. ET on The CW.

He told him he got into Beverly Hills High through the multicultural program and described his commute to school each morning, which included 4 a.m. wake-up calls.

Paysinger told him about that time gunshots rang out after a championship baseball game at a local park. And that time his mom became exceedingly concerned because Paysinger wore the wrong colors to school. And all those times he had to sleep at his grandparents' house because it was too late for him to ride a bicycle into his neighborhood.

"One of the things that I always found interesting about Los Angeles was the stark contrast in communities that are just sitting side by side," Morck said. "That was always interesting to me because you grow up here and you kind of stay in your pocket, and you kind of dealt with what was in front of you. I also realized at the same time I was talking to someone who had found success in a hard space, and he was a modern-day kind of hero in his path, in his journey, and that really appealed to me."

Paysinger kept sharing stories as the year went on. He soon got a call from Morck's childhood friend, Rogers, a producer and former professional soccer player whose fiancé at the time was Berlanti, one of the biggest TV producers in Hollywood.

Soon, Paysinger was meeting with Roth, the chief executive at Warner Bros., and writing treatments about the struggles he faced. The CW bought the rights in the second meeting. They found a director, Rob Hardy, and a writer, April Blair. They identified a premise -- "an outsider in two worlds" -- and assembled a cast and crew. By April 2018, they shot the pilot.

Paysinger watched it on a couch in the studio lot and "nearly passed out."

"I'm holding my wife's hand and I feel like I'm about to break it because my heart's beating so fast," Paysinger said. "Think about it -- if this s--- sucked, how am I going to show this to people?"

'Football players are not dumb, at all'

Ezra, a young British actor, plays Paysinger in the show. His character is named Spencer James, and, like Paysinger in high school, he is a star wide receiver who finds a coach (Billy Baker, played by Diggs) who gets him into Beverly Hills High, igniting turmoil. (It's basically "The O.C." meets "Friday Night Lights.")

The fictional names helped Paysinger separate himself from the show and approach it from a bird's-eye view.

His main objective was to shatter stereotypes of the inner city.

"I wanted to tell the story of, 'We're a lot more similar on these different sides of the track than you guys think,'" Paysinger said. "Being from South Central, and knowing how South Central is portrayed in Hollywood as this desolate area with gang violence, drugs, everything -- they have to realize that the sun shines there as long as it shines in Beverly Hills. The one thing I want the viewers to see is South Central is also a beautiful place. It's a wonderful place. It's a place that I call home to this day. I think we've been able to do that."

Paysinger drove Diggs and Ezra around his neighborhood as they prepared for their roles, taking them to his house and his schools and his barbershop and his local swap meet.

While still an active player, Paysinger read scripts and helped Blair write some of the football scenes. Now he is a full-on, ever-present member of the crew with his own director's chair (Ezra's chair says "Spencer;" Paysinger's says "Real Spencer").

In the show, Paysinger can often be seen patrolling the sidelines as a nondescript assistant coach. But Paysinger also provides Ezra with occasional insight as to how he would have approached certain situations. He sits in the writers' room to contribute anecdotes. He participates in the production meetings to learn as much as possible.

"They've really welcomed me into the creative process," Paysinger said, "and I appreciate that."

"That's why when I got cut, I wasn't sad. It wasn't surreal to me. It was just like, 'Man, I'm ready for this.'" Paysinger, on the time he started writing a script during a defensive meeting.

Paysinger wants to eventually lead other projects, including one on mental health among athletes. He wishes to someday create works like Donald Glover, the multitalented actor, director and musician who inspired Paysinger with his hit show "Atlanta."

"Being a part of this project has really helped me dispel a lot of stereotypes when it comes to athletes and sports," Diggs said. "Football players are not dumb, at all. But there is that perception."

When it all clicked

Paysinger can vividly remember a Thursday defensive meeting while he was with the Panthers late in the 2017 season. An idea popped in his head for a story about a kid whose barber suddenly goes missing, a big deal in Paysinger's community. Paysinger began writing about all the hurdles the boy went through to locate his barber. He started building the character, created several subplots, and before he knew it, six pages had been filled out.

His defensive coordinator, Steve Wilks, was on Page 16 of the install, while Paysinger remained on Page 3.

"That was the moment I knew I was ready to walk away from this game," he said. "That's why when I got cut, I wasn't sad. It wasn't surreal to me. It was just like, 'Man, I'm ready for this.'"

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All american season 7: confirmation, cast & everything we know.

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All american season 7 latest news, all american season 7 is confirmed, all american season 7 cast, all american season 7 story.

• All American Season 7: Further News & Info
• All American renewed for season 7 despite budget cuts, with 13 episodes instead of the usual 20.
• Daniel Ezra will return as Spencer James, but he will no longer appear in a recurring role.
• Season 7 storyline will have to focus on other characters since Spencer's arch is wrapped up in season 6.

Growing from a teen drama to a full-fledged TV institution across its six seasons on the air thus far, All American is one of the CW's biggest series, and it is set to return for season 7. Beginning in 2018, the sports drama follows Spencer James, a promising high-school athlete who is recruited from South Crenshaw High to the prestigious Beverly Hills High School to play football. Over the show's run, the story has grown and evolved as Spencer struggles with the culture clash of his new life, while also balancing his complicated personal life off the gridiron.

Generally well-received by critics since day one, All American was the crown jewel in the CW's slate of live-action scripted shows that largely dominated the latter half of the 2010s. Along with hits like Riverdale and The Flash , the green-branded network became a go-to for engrossing drama TV series. In recent years, many of its most popular shows have been axed by the network, including ratings juggernauts like Walker and the aforementioned Riverdale . Fortunately for long-time fans, All American is returning for a seventh season.

Stream On Netflix

Daniel Ezra Is No Longer A Series Regular

After the show's shocking renewal, the latest news is even more surprising when it was revealed that Daniel Ezra won't be a series regular in All American season 7 . Starring in all 6 seasons thus far as aspiring pro football player Spencer James, Ezra will only play a supporting role in season 7 after his arch was largely paid off . According to Daniel Ezra and producer Nkechi Okoro Carroll, the decision was not because of recent budget cuts but was a mutual creative choice between the two.

Read Ezra's comments about his departure below:

“After making the difficult decision to leave All American , my sole focus became completing the journey of the most life-affirming character I’ve ever played in the manner he deserves. Thanks to Nkechi and the writers, I got my wish. Season six is ‘Spencer’s goodbye.’ I’ll miss him. I’ll miss our cast and crew. I hope it’s been as fun to watch him as it has been to play him.”

The Sports Drama Is Renewed

Though it was in doubt, The CW has opted to renew All American for its seventh season on the air . The CW's recent shift away from scripted programming has resulted in the cancelation of shows like Riverdale , even though the Archie Comics series brought in the ratings numbers. A similar situation happened with Walker earlier in 2024, and it was uncertain if All American 's massive ratings would be enough to keep it afloat at the increasingly cost-concious network . Fortunately, The CW wanted more of the sports drama.

All American season 6 premiered on April 1, 2024.

Daniel Ezra Is Demoted To Guest Star

Though the cast of All American season 7 seemed pretty secure going into the second half of season 6, the shocking news that Daniel Ezra won't return to star as Spencer James changes everything about the ensemble. Ezra will return as a guest star periodically throughout season 7, but other characters will become the focus of the upcoming episodes. Until more evidence is available, it can be assumed that Samantha Logan will continue to play a lead role as Olivia , but that could all change quickly as well.

The expected cast of season 7 includes:

Why All American Season 5 Killed Off Billy Baker

All American dealt with Billy Baker’s season 5 death in a deliberate, respectful way long before audiences saw Billy’s departure on the screen.

With Spencer Leaving, Who Takes Center Stage?

Anything that happens in season 7 will be entirely dependent on the events of All American season 6, and it is difficult to speculate about plot points until the season is completed. However, with Spencer in the NFL , and the confirmation that Ezra will only return in a guest capacity, season 7 is going to be very different from its predecessors. The focus will be shifted away from Spencer , but it isn't clear if Olivia will also take a step back from the forefront. Obviously, supporting characters like Layla and Coop will get more space, but their exact plots are unknown at this juncture.

All American

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This sports drama, inspired by the real-life journey of football player Spencer Paysinger, follows a high school student from south L.A. when he is recruited to play for Beverly Hills High.

All American Season 7: Further News & Info

• All American Season 7 Gets Update After CW Leaves Series Off Its Fall 2024 Schedule
• "So Many Stories To Tell": All American Season 7 Prospects Addressed By Showrunner
• All American Season 7 Confirmed Amid CW Slashing Scripted Shows
• All American's Season 7 Chances Are Good, But Could Result In Budget Cuts According To Report

• Upcoming Releases

Dermatologist

• Saint Petersburg

Dr. James M. Spencer, MD, MS

• Contacts & Locations

James M. Spencer, MD, MS, FASDS, FAAD, FACMS, is a dermatologist and who diagnoses and treats patients at Spencer Dermatology, an integral part of the Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery network, located in Saint Petersburg, FL. Advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery is the largest network of medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology experts in the United States. Medical Director of Spencer Dermatology, Dr. Spencer has until very recently served as the Director of MOHS and Dermatologic Surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City, where he continues to serve as Professor of Clinical Dermatology. He is an expert in cosmetic dermatology, MOHS surgery, skin cancer treatment and advanced therapies for skin resurfacing, such as Erbium: YAG Laser Resurfacing and fractional CO2 lasers. As a dermatologist, Dr. Spencer specializes in the surgical and medical management of diseases related to skin, hair and nails, and some cosmetic problems. In addition to his clinical role, he has also been Editor-in-Chief of the Cosmetic Dermatology journal, co-editor in chief of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, and member of the editorial boards for Dermatologic Surgery, Aesthetic Buyers Guide, The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, and Contemporary Dermatology.

Dr. James M. Spencer, MD, MS's Videos

Education and training.

Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons 1988

Board Certification

American Board of Dermatology

Dermatology American Board of Dermatology ABD

Provider Details

Dr. James M. Spencer, MD, MS's Expert Contributions

Weird growth on my upper lip.

Needs a biopsy James Spencer, MD READ MORE

Lump On Palm of Hand

Probably a ganglion cyst, which is benign James Spencer MD READ MORE

Red skin bump?

It needs a biopsy READ MORE

Rash or STD?

Most likely fungus , get Lamasil cream over the counter READ MORE

Does scratching cause hyperpigmentation?

If a wound is created, yes James Spencer MD MS READ MORE

Cyst removal?

There are people who are resistant to Lidocaine. Try using Bupivocaine James Spencer READ MORE

Dermatologist question?

Always a good idea to get strange looking moles checked James Spencer MD MS READ MORE

How to get rid of very dry skin on your hands?

A superpotent topical steroid May help James Spencer MD READ MORE

Curious bites

Unlikely to be fleas as fleas can’t fly and usually just get the legs. Could dark spots in the center be blisters and this is chicken pox? READ MORE

White spot on the back of my arms

Most likely pityriasis alba, treat with topical steroid. Another possibility is tinea versicolor, treat with lamasil which is otc. READ MORE

What is the treatment for my hand skin peeling

Try superpotent topical steroid like temovate READ MORE

What is the best cream for hair loss?

Rogaine 5% James Spencer MD READ MORE

Skin brightening?

Try Retin A or if you have brown spots Trauma. READ MORE

Permanent Weeping Rash!? Desperate for RELIEF, please help!

Consider shoe allergy. Wear sandals for a week and use super potent steroid READ MORE

Can my daughter go swimming with ringworm?

Yes READ MORE

Areas of expertise and specialization

Faculty titles & positions.

• Dermatologic Surgery & Clinical Professor of Dermatology Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai -
• Assistant Professor University of Miami -
• associate professor and vice chairman Mt. Sinai School of Medicine i -
• professor of clinical dermatology Mt. Sinai School of Medicine -
• Owner Spencer Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center LLC -
• Co-Chair National Council for Skin Cancer Prevention -
• past president American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology & Aesthetic Surgery -
• past member American Academy of Dermatology -
• Actinic Keratosis
• Skin Cancer
• Contact Dermatitis
• Seborrheic Keratosis
• Natural Hormone Balancing

Professional Memberships

• American Society for Dermatologic Surgery - Fellow   
• American Academy of Dermatology - Fellow   
• American Society for Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery   
• Florida Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery   
• National Council for Skin Cancer Prevention   

Fellowships

• University of Tennessee with Rex Amonette, MD  MOHS micrographic surgery 

Dr. James M. Spencer, MD, MS's Practice location

Spencer Dermatology & Skin Surgery Center

• Mon: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
• Tue: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
• Wed: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
• Thu: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
• Fri: 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM
• Sat: Closed
• Sun: Closed

Dr. James M. Spencer, MD, MS's reviews

Patient Experience with Dr. Spencer

Based on 35 reviews

Media Releases

Get to know Dermatologist Dr. James M. Spencer, who serves patients in St. Petersburg, Florida. 

Dr. Spencer received his medical degree from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University in New York City. He completed a fellowship in Mohs Surgery with Rex Amonette, MD, and has served as an assistant professor at the University of Miami and associate professor and vice chairman at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine in New York. Most recently, he has been promoted to professor of clinical dermatology at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine and has opened a private practice in St. Petersburg, Florida.

He currently practices with his private practice, Spencer Dermatology and Skin Surgery Center LLC and is affiliated with St. Anthony’s Hospital. He is certified in dermatology by the American Board of Dermatology. The American Board of Dermatology exists to serve the public by setting high standards for dermatologists to earn and maintain Board certification. The American Board of Dermatology is a voluntary, non-profit, private, autonomous organization formed for the primary purpose of protecting the public interest by establishing and maintaining high standards of training, education, and qualifications of physicians rendering care in dermatology.

Dr. Spencer is active in the prevention, detection, and treatment of all types of skin cancer. He also has an active clinical and research interest in lasers and cosmetic therapies. Dr. Spencer is a frequent speaker, both nationally and internationally, on cutaneous oncology, as well as cosmetic therapies and lasers. In addition to maintaining a private practice, he is co-chairman of the National Council for Skin Cancer Prevention, past president of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology & Aesthetic Surgery, a past member of the board of directors of the American Academy of Dermatology, and was previously a co-editor-in-chief of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology and editor-in-chief of the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Dr. Spencer is a co-editor of 1 book, author of 14 book chapters, and over 100 scientific publications.

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• Cast & crew
• User reviews

It Ends with Us

Adapted from the Colleen Hoover novel, Lily overcomes a traumatic childhood to embark on a new life. A chance meeting with a neurosurgeon sparks a connection but Lily begins to see sides of ... Read all Adapted from the Colleen Hoover novel, Lily overcomes a traumatic childhood to embark on a new life. A chance meeting with a neurosurgeon sparks a connection but Lily begins to see sides of him that remind her of her parents' relationship. Adapted from the Colleen Hoover novel, Lily overcomes a traumatic childhood to embark on a new life. A chance meeting with a neurosurgeon sparks a connection but Lily begins to see sides of him that remind her of her parents' relationship.

• Justin Baldoni
• Christy Hall
• Colleen Hoover
• Blake Lively
• Jenny Slate
• 37 User reviews
• 49 Critic reviews
• 54 Metascore

Top cast 24

• Ryle Kincaid

• Atlas Corrigan

• Andrew Bloom

• Jenny Bloom

• Young Atlas Corrigan

• Young Lily Bloom

• Doctor Johnson

• Doctor Julie

• Doctor Dunbar

• (as Megan Elyse Robinson)

• Female Waiter
• All cast & crew
• Production, box office & more at IMDbPro

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Did you know

• Trivia The casting of Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni as Lily and Ryle caused backlash from fans because in the book Lily is 23 and Ryle is 30, while Lively is 35 and Baldoni is 39. Author of the book Colleen Hoover explained in an interview that she wanted to age the characters up in the movie in an effort to correct a mistake she made in the book. She said, "Back when I wrote It Ends With Us, the new adult [genre] was very popular. You were writing college-age characters. That's what I was contracted to do. I made Lily very young. I didn't know that neurosurgeons went to school for 50 years. There's not a 20-something neurosurgeon. As I started making this movie, I'm like, 'We need to age them out, because I messed up.' So, that's my fault."
• Connections Featured in The Project: Episode dated 6 August 2024 (2024)
• Soundtracks Start Me Up Written by August Wisbon Performed by DJ Roc Courtesy of Crucial Music Corporation

Technical specs

• Runtime 2 hours 10 minutes

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