Spencer Tracy, born Spencer Bonaventure Tracy on April 5, 1900, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was an American actor known for his natural performing style and versatility. He was one of the major stars of Hollywood's Golden Age and the first actor to win two consecutive Academy Awards for Best Actor.

He discovered his talent for acting while attending Ripon College and later received a scholarship for the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. He spent seven years in the theater, working in stock companies and on Broadway.

His breakthrough came in 1930 when his lead performance in The Last Mile caught Hollywood's attention. After a successful film debut in John Ford's Up the River, he signed a contract with Fox Film Corporation.

His five years with Fox featured many acting performances, but he remained largely unknown to movie audiences. In 1935, he joined Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), where his career flourished. He won consecutive Oscars for Captains Courageous in 1937 and Boys Town in 1938.

He appeared in 75 films during his career, including notable ones like Fury, Woman of the Year, and Guess Who's Coming to Dinner. He was known for his collaborations with Katharine Hepburn, with whom he made nine films over 25 years.

His career was marked by numerous accolades, including five British Academy Film Award nominations and four Golden Globe Award nominations. He won the Best Actor prize at the Cannes Film Festival and the National Board of Review Award for Best Actor.

His family included his wife, Louise Treadwell, whom he married in 1923. The couple had two children, John and Susie. Spencer Tracy and his wife became estranged in the 1930s, but they never divorced.

His relationship with Katharine Hepburn began in 1941 and lasted until his death. Despite his personal struggles, including severe alcoholism and guilt over his son's deafness, Tracy maintained a successful career.

He was known for his dedication to his craft and his ability to embody various characters on screen. His personal life was troubled, but he was admired for his talent and professionalism. He passed away on June 10, 1967, in Beverly Hills, California, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest actors.