Matthew Gray Gubler is an American actor, filmmaker, and author best known for his role as Dr. Spencer Reid in the long-running CBS television series Criminal Minds. Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, he attended the Las Vegas Academy of the Arts before graduating from New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. He began his career as a model for high-profile brands like Marc Jacobs and Burberry before transitioning into acting. His film debut came in 2004 with a role in The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, directed by Wes Anderson. Gubler gained widespread fame for his portrayal of the eccentric genius Spencer Reid, a character he played for all fifteen seasons of Criminal Minds. Beyond acting, he is an accomplished director, having helmed several episodes of Criminal Minds and various music videos. He is also a talented illustrator and has published his own artwork online and in print. In 2019, he authored and illustrated a children's book titled Rumple Buttercup: A Story of Bananas, Belonging, and Being Yourself, which became a New York Times bestseller. He has provided voice work for several animated films, most notably as Simon in the Alvin and the Chipmunks franchise. Gubler is known for his quirky personality and distinct fashion sense, which often incorporates vintage elements. He continues to work on various creative projects, including independent films and literary endeavors. His contributions to television have earned him a dedicated global fanbase.