Kevin Spacey gets standing ovation in stage comeback after trial

Kevin Spacey, 64, received a warm reception at a theatre in Oxford during his first stage appearance since being acquitted of sexual assault charges. Spacey performed a brief scene from Timon of Athens during a lecture dedicated to the late philosopher Roger Scruton.

The recent event followed the withdrawal of a London cinema's offer to host the premiere of the British film "Control" upon learning of Spacey's involvement. The actor's legal battle culminated in a not guilty verdict in July, but his return to mainstream film, television, and theatre remains limited.

Amidst ongoing controversies and accusations, Spacey has played a remote voice role in the film "Control." The Prince Charles cinema in London chose to distance itself from the premiere due to Spacey's participation, citing concerns about the actor's recent history.


Douglas Murray, the conservative columnist who facilitated Spacey's appearance, emphasized the relevance of the performance in the context of societal treatment of individuals. The event paid tribute to Roger Scruton, a divisive figure known for his conservative views and controversial remarks, whose legacy continues to be a subject of debate.

The jury found Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey not guilty of nine sex offences against four men alleged to have occurred between 2001 and 2013. The verdicts in London followed a US court ruling last year that dismissed separate sexual allegations in a civil case brought there. A judge ruled the accusation were not proven after a jury was unconvinced by the evidence presented.