Western Reader
The principle of “innocent until proven guilty” applies to everyone, including Kevin Spacey, despite the multiple claims made against him that form a pattern over the course of his life.
Spacey’s story highlights the flaws in our artistic system, evident by the consequences he has faced for his alleged actions.
Allegations
With a number of popular films, awards, and critical acclaim, such as two Oscars, Spacey established himself as one of the best in the industry.
Roles like the villain in “The Usual Suspects” and his character in “House of Cards” made Spacey famous for portraying characters who got away with their wrongdoings.
However, Spacey’s downfall came with the emergence of the #MeToo movement and multiple sexual harassment allegations that severely impacted his career. While he has been cleared of all criminal charges in the United States, his situation in the United Kingdom is less favorable.
“I’m sure the defendant will be gratified to know that many of you know his name or have seen his films but that won’t disqualify you from sitting on this jury,” said judge Mark Wall at Kevin Spacey’s U.K. trial. https://t.co/Jm5vb7WXCo
— Variety (@Variety) June 28, 2023
In the UK trial, Spacey is facing allegations from men in their 30s and 40s. These allegations involve acts he is said to have committed between 2001 and 2013 when he served as the artistic director of the Old Vic Theatre in Britain.
#KevinSpacey trial begins: Jury selection starts as actor faces claims of 12 sexual offences against four men dating back 22 years,‼️ pic.twitter.com/6UFL9ku4CR
— DaV_ID (@DaRu_2010) June 28, 2023
Beginning of Trial
According to the Associated Press, jurors who will decide the fate of Kevin Spacey, the Oscar-winning actor, took their oaths on Wednesday in a London courthouse.
Spacey is accused of sexually assaulting four men more than twenty years ago.
Dressed in a dark blue suit, light blue blouse, and pink tie, the two-time Academy Award winner appeared in court. His full name, Kevin Spacey Fowler, was used when addressing him. On the pier, behind a window, he confirmed, “I am.”
Spacey, currently on bail, pleaded not guilty to over a dozen charges, including sexual assault, indecent assault, and forcing someone to engage in sexual activity without consent.
The trial’s opening statements are scheduled for Friday.
This article appeared in NewsHouse and has been published here with permission.
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