Five Fast Facts About NCIS Star Joe Spano

Joe Spano is a veteran actor who has worked in a number of popular movies and television, including Apollo 13, Primal Fear, and Hill Street Blues, but he gained even more popularity by guest starring as FBI agent Tobias Fornell on NCIS.

In fact, he has been a part of the show since the very beginning, back to the first episode in 2003. From where Spano grew up to his award-winning performance, here are five fast facts you need to know about the NCIS actor!

In the Beginning
Spano was born in San Francisco, California and spent the early part of his life on the west coast. Originally intending to go the pre-med route, he became far more interested in acting. He also became a member of the San Francisco improv group called The Wing.

The Play’s The Thing
In 1968, Spano helped found the Berkeley Repertory Theater and appeared in its very first production. He stayed for 10 years. While he’s worked in movies and television, Spano loves being a stage actor. He made his Broadway debut in 1992 in a revival of The Price and also did American Buffalo, Waiting for Godot, and The Devil’s Disciple.

Emmy Winner
Spano began working in television in the 70s and was huge as Det. Henry Goldblume on Hill Street Blues, but he didn’t win an Emmy award until 1988 for Best Guest Actor in a Drama Series for his role on Midnight Caller.

Sweet Inspiration 
Film legend and Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks credits Joe Spano as his first serious role model and also says that he was a source of inspiration to him as an actor.

Getting Personal
Spano married his wife, Joan Zerrien, in 1980. She is a therapist and together they adopted two daughters.