Spencer Grammer
42 years old
Who is Spencer Grammer?
Spencer Grammer is a talented American actress and voice artist, widely recognized for her roles in both live-action and animated television. She gained fame playing Casey Cartwright in the hit college comedy-drama series Greek and voices Summer Smith in the critically acclaimed animated series Rick and Morty. Known for her expressive voice and versatile acting, Spencer has built a strong career in both drama and comedy.
Early Life and Family Background
Spencer Grammer was born on October 9, 1983, in Los Angeles, California. Her full name is Spencer Karen Grammer. She is the daughter of Kelsey Grammer, an Emmy-winning actor famous for Frasier, and Doreen Alderman, a dance instructor.
Named after her late paternal aunt, who was tragically murdered in 1975, Spencer grew up in a blended and prominent family. She has six paternal half-siblings:
- Greer Grammer
- Mason Grammer
- Faith Grammer
- Jude Grammer
- Gabriel Grammer
- James Grammer
Additionally, she has a maternal half-sister named Madison.
As a child, Spencer once dreamed of becoming a zoologist, showing an early curiosity for science before shifting her focus to the performing arts.
Education
Spencer pursued her undergraduate studies at Marymount Manhattan College in New York City. In 2017, she began graduate studies at Columbia University, focusing on film screenwriting and directing. Her academic efforts reflect her evolving interest in storytelling, both in front of and behind the camera.
Career Highlights
Early Acting Career
Spencer began acting at an early age, appearing uncredited in the popular sitcom Cheers, which also starred her father. However, she made her breakthrough in 2007 when she landed the lead role in Greek, an ABC Family college dramedy.
Breakthrough with Greek
In Greek, Spencer played Casey Cartwright, a confident sorority sister navigating college life with her geeky younger brother Rusty. The series became a cult hit and ran for four seasons, making her a household name among young adult audiences.
Diverse Roles and Voice Acting
Following the Greek, Spencer took on a range of television and film projects. She starred in the thriller Roommate Wanted (originally titled 2br/1ba), released in 2015. She also played the female lead, Holly, in Ironside (2013), a reboot of the classic 1960s crime drama. Unfortunately, the show was canceled after three episodes.
Success with Rick and Morty
In 2013, she began voicing Summer Smith, the teenage daughter in Rick and Morty. The Adult Swim animated sci-fi series has since become a global phenomenon, and Spencer’s voice work has earned widespread praise. Her performance as Summer blends humor, sarcasm, and vulnerability, contributing to the show’s success.
Award Recognition
In 2016, Spencer was nominated for a BTVA Television Voice Acting Award for Rick and Morty in the category Best Vocal Ensemble in a Television Series.
Personal Life
Marriage to James Hesketh
Spencer Grammer married James Hesketh, a firefighter originally from Ireland, on February 11, 2011. The couple met through a mutual friend at a party in Los Angeles and dated for two years before getting married. James even sought permission from Spencer’s father, Kelsey Grammer, before proposing.
The same year they married, Spencer gave birth to their son, Emmett Emmanual Hesketh, on October 10, 2011.
Despite their strong start, the couple filed for divorce, finalizing it in November 2017, after nearly nine years of marriage.
Past Relationship with Scott Michael Foster
Before marrying James, Spencer was romantically involved with actor Scott Michael Foster from 2007 to 2008. Their relationship lasted around a year and ended on amicable terms.
Relationship Timeline
| Relationship Type | Partner | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Married | James Hesketh | 2011 – 2017 (8 years) |
| Dating | Scott Michael Foster | 2007 – 2008 (1 year) |
FAQs About Spencer Grammer
1. Is Spencer Grammer married?
Spencer was married to James Hesketh from 2011 to 2017. She is currently divorced.
2. Does Spencer Grammer have any children?
Yes, she has one son, Emmett Emmanual Hesketh, born in 2011.
3. Who is Spencer Grammer’s father?
Her father is Kelsey Grammer, an acclaimed actor best known for Frasier.
4. What is Spencer Grammer known for?
She is best known for her roles in Greek and for voicing Summer Smith in Rick and Morty.
5. Did Spencer Grammer attend college?
Yes, she studied at Marymount Manhattan College and later attended Columbia University, where she focused on film screenwriting and directing.
6. Was she ever in a relationship with Scott Michael Foster?
Yes, they dated from 2007 to 2008 before Spencer married James Hesketh.
