Brent Spiner

Brent Jay Spiner, born February 2, 1949, in Houston, is an American actor renowned for his role as Lieutenant Commander Data in Star Trek: The Next Generation and its films. His portrayal of the sentient android in "First Contact" netted him a Saturn Award, alongside a nomination for Dr. Brackish Okun in "Independence Day." Raised Jewish by Sylvia and Jack Spiner, he was later adopted by Sol Mintz, whose surname he used until 1975. An accomplished high school debater and university theatre performer, Spiner's multifaceted career extends to music and stage, embodying his versatility and enduring presence in sci-fi and beyond.