Early Directing Ventures
Speight's transition to directing began with co-directing the independent feature North Beach in 2004. His directorial skills were further honed when he wrote and directed the satirical short film America 101 in 2013, starring Band of Brothers alumnus Rick Gomez. The film's festival success launched him into commercial directing, where he helmed spots for major brands including Pepsi and Buffalo Wild Wings.
Television Directing Success
After participating in Warner Bros. TV Director's Program, Speight made his directing debut on Supernatural Season 11 with "Just My Imagination," earning a Hugo Award nomination. He directed 11 episodes total, becoming the 8th most prolific director in the series' history. His most challenging feat came directing Season 13's "Unfinished Business" while playing both Gabriel and Loki. His directing career expanded to include episodes of Lucifer (Netflix), Walker (CW), Kung Fu (CW), The Winchesters (CW), and Dead Boy Detectives (Netflix).
Notable Directing Style and Approach
Speight attributes his directing success (including directing himself in several different roles) to extensive preparation, stating, “The three keys to directing yourself in TV are prep, prep, and prep." His deep acting background also gives him unique insight to the performers’ process. His work on Dead Boy Detectives' "The Case of the Very Long Stairway" has been particularly praised as a series standout, noting his mastery of blocking and camera work coupled with his ability to inspire elevated performances, commenting that his directing brought out the best acting scenes in the entire season - a testament to how his preparation and actor-focused approach creates space for performers to deliver impactful work.
Away from the Screen
When he's not on set, Speight makes music with his country rock band Dick Jr. & The Volunteers. Their debut album, The Dance and How to Do It, hit #5 on iTunes' country chart and generated the single, "Going Straight," which was featured in Supernatural.