Riccione: Kevin Spacey, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in films such as Seven, The Usual Suspects, American Beauty, and the television series House of Cards, revealed during a masterclass at the Italian Global Series cinema event in Riccione that he holds no grudge against those who branded him guilty in his abuse cases, many of which have resulted in acquittals.
According to Ansa News Agency, Spacey shared how the past seven years have been a period of reflection and personal growth for him. The 65-year-old actor expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work both on and off the screen and for the unwavering support of those who withheld judgment until the conclusion of his trials. Spacey stated, “Those who immediately treated me as guilty have my forgiveness but I will not look for those people again.”
Spacey discussed the legal challenges he faced in the US and Great Britain, where he was accused of sexual harassment and abuse, noting that most cases have ended in not guilty verdicts, though two cases remain open in Great Britain. He reflected on the trials as transformative experiences that brought him closer to his family and himself, emphasizing a newfound understanding and lack of resentment.
The actor, who has won two Oscars and recently received the Maximo Excellence Award at the Riccione festival, spoke about the consistent support he has received from fans. He expressed appreciation for those who have engaged with him and his work, dismissing negative perceptions encountered online as unrepresentative of his real-life interactions.
During the masterclass, Spacey revisited significant moments in his career, attributing his artistic discipline to his training at Julliard. He fondly recalled his time on House of Cards, highlighting the exceptional collaboration with co-star Robin Wright and director David Fincher. Spacey also paid tribute to his late friend Val Kilmer, recounting their early experiences together and Kilmer’s impact on his life.
Despite the controversies, Spacey has continued to work in independent films, including Franco Nero’s The Man Who Drew God. He expressed gratitude to Nero for the opportunity to work when others would not hire him. Looking ahead, Spacey is involved in upcoming projects like Matt Routledge’s thriller ‘The Awakening’ and Dustin Fairbanks’ historical thriller 1780.
Spacey concluded by reflecting on the themes that now resonate with him as an actor, expressing a profound interest in stories of redemption, silence, and survival. He acknowledged a deeper understanding of these themes gained over the past seven years, shaping his perspective and approach to storytelling.