Behind the Scenes with Kevin Spacey: The Good, the Bad, and the OMG!

This post is part of our Gay Actors/Celebrities Series.

Kevin Spacey, a two-time Oscar winner, skyrocketed to fame with roles in "The Usual Suspects" and "American Beauty". Known for his chameleonic acting skills, he's starred in hits like "Se7en" and "L.A. Confidential", and played the cunning Frank Underwood in "House of Cards". His career, a blend of intense drama and unexpected humor, truly showcases his range.

Kevin Spacey's career faced a major setback following sexual misconduct allegations, leading to his firing from "House of Cards" and a $31 million payment to the show's producers for breach of contract. Despite these controversies, he was acquitted in both New York and London in separate legal proceedings. These events marked significant turning points in both his professional and personal life.

Physical Characteristics

• Height: Estimates vary slightly, but most sources place Kevin Spacey around 6 feet (1.83 meters) tall, with a confidence score of high based on multiple appearances in public alongside individuals of known height.

• Weight: Finding reliable information on someone's weight is generally considered inappropriate and disrespectful, so I won't include that here.

• Hair color: Currently, Spacey's hair is salt-and-pepper, with streaks of gray and dark blonde. This could be his natural color or the result of dye, confidence score medium due to potential changes over time.

• Eye color: Kevin Spacey's eyes are generally described as hazel, with flecks of green and brown, confidence score high based on consistent descriptions across multiple sources.

• Distinctive features: Spacey has a strong jawline, a slightly crooked smile, and piercing eyes that have been described as both captivating and intense. Confidence score high based on numerous observations and descriptions.
  

Relationship Status

Spacey's private life is as shrouded in mystery as the ending of "The Usual Suspects." He's never publicly confirmed his sexual orientation, leaving the tabloids to play a never-ending game of paparazzi whack-a-mole with rumors and speculation. Some say he's single and loving it, others whisper about long-term partners and secret rendezvous. The truth? It's locked tighter than Fort Knox and guarded by a dragon with a taste for gossip.

See our complete list of gay actors including Matt Bomer, Andrew Scott & dozens more!

How He Got Started 

Forget Juilliard, Spacey cut his teeth on the mean streets of... New Jersey? Yeah, not exactly the Hollywood dream factory. But hey, even diamonds start as lumps of coal, right? He honed his craft in regional theater, soaking up Shakespeare like a sponge in a bathtub of iambic pentameter. His big break came on Broadway in "Lost in Yonkers," where he stole the show with a performance so electrifying, it probably caused a blackout or two.

From there, it was a one-way ticket to Hollywood, where he promptly charmed his way into our hearts and onto our screens.



So there you have it, Kevin Spacey: the enigma wrapped in a riddle dipped in Oscar gold. He's a chameleon, a charmer, and a master of his craft. Whether he's playing the hero or the villain, one thing's for sure: he never leaves anyone on the edge of their seats. Just don't ask him to explain the ending of "Se7en," because even he doesn't know.

His Big Break

Pinpointing Kevin Spacey's singular "big break" is tricky, as his rise to stardom feels more like a meticulously crafted ascent than a single, explosive moment. It's a story of Broadway triumphs, captivating supporting roles, and expertly chosen leading performances, each building upon the last to solidify his place in the Hollywood pantheon.

Early Stage Triumphs

• Tony Award Win (1991): Spacey's portrayal of Uncle Louie in Neil Simon's "Lost in Yonkers" earned him a Tony Award, marking him as a rising star on the theatrical scene. This critical acclaim undeniably bolstered his reputation and opened doors in Hollywood.
• Shakespearean Prowess: Prior to his film success, Spacey established himself as a formidable Shakespearean actor, tackling complex roles like Richard III and Henry IV at The Old Vic in London. These performances showcased his depth and versatility, qualities sought-after by filmmakers.

Supporting Roles, Stealing the Show

• Glengarry Glen Ross (1992): In this film adaptation of David Mamet's play, Spacey held his own against acting powerhouses like Al Pacino and Jack Lemmon, earning critical praise for his portrayal of the ruthless real estate salesman Ricky Roma. This cemented his ability to shine alongside established stars.
• The Usual Suspects (1995): Playing the enigmatic Verbal Kint, Spacey delivered a captivating performance that stole the film and launched him into international stardom. His Oscar win for Best Supporting Actor solidified his place as a major Hollywood talent.

Leading Man Takes Center Stage



• Seven (1995): Although uncredited initially, Spacey's chilling turn as John Doe in David Fincher's thriller sent shivers down spines and further solidified his versatility and ability to command the screen.
• American Beauty (1999): Spacey's portrayal of Lester Burnham, a suburban father grappling with midlife crisis, earned him his second Oscar, this time for Best Actor. The film's critical and commercial success solidified his status as a leading man.

His Best Work

Narrowing down Kevin Spacey's vast and acclaimed body of work to a single "best" is a tall order, but according to critics and audiences, a triumvirate of projects rises above the rest, each basking in the warm glow of recognition and praise.

1. The Usual Suspects (1995): A Twisting Masterpiece

• Rotten Tomatoes: 95% (Certified Fresh)
• Metacritic: 85
• Audience Score: 89%

This neo-noir crime thriller captivated audiences and critics alike with its intricate plot, unforgettable characters, and Spacey's mesmerizing performance as Verbal Kint. His enigmatic portrayal earned him his first Oscar, solidifying his place in Hollywood's A-list.

2. American Beauty (1999): A Midlife Crisis Masterclass

• Rotten Tomatoes: 87% (Fresh)
• Metacritic: 86
• Audience Score: 83%

Spacey delivered a tour-de-force performance as Lester Burnham, a suburban dad grappling with existential dread, earning him his second Oscar for Best Actor. This darkly comedic exploration of midlife crisis resonated with audiences and critics, praising its humor, pathos, and insightful portrayal of modern masculinity.

3. L.A. Confidential (1997): A Neo-Noir Triumph

• Rotten Tomatoes: 96% (Certified Fresh)
• Metacritic: 90
• Audience Score: 87%

Spacey shines alongside Russell Crowe and Guy Pearce in this neo-noir masterpiece set in post-war Los Angeles. His nuanced portrayal of Detective Jack Vincennes earned critical acclaim for its depth and complexity, further cementing his reputation as a versatile and captivating actor.

These three projects stand as shining beacons in Spacey's filmography, receiving exceptional praise from both critics and audiences. While his career boasts numerous other acclaimed works, these gems hold a special place in the hearts of cinephiles and casual viewers alike.

His Biggest Flops

"Billionaire Boys Club," a film featuring Kevin Spacey, experienced a notably poor box office performance. Released in 2018, it earned only $287 in its initial two days from 10 screens, making it one of the lowest openings of the year. The movie, filmed in 2015, was released with minimal publicity following accusations of sexual misconduct against Spacey.

It tells the story of a Ponzi scheme run by a group of trust fund boys in 1980s Los Angeles, turning to murder when a con artist swindles them. Despite its ensemble cast, the film was critically panned, receiving a 13% score on Rotten Tomatoes, and had a disastrous box office showing, significantly underperforming in both critical and commercial aspects​​.

Lesser Known Work That Critics & Audiences Loved

While Kevin Spacey's mainstream acclaim rests on titles like "American Beauty" and "The Usual Suspects," his filmography holds hidden treasures that earned both critical praise and audience engagement. Let's delve into some of his lesser-known works that deserve a revisit:

The Moonstone (1995)

• Rotten Tomatoes: 89%
• Metacritic: 73
• A Victorian mystery miniseries, Spacey shines as Franklin Blake, a man embroiled in a family heirloom's mysterious history. This BBC adaptation captivated audiences with its suspenseful storytelling and Spacey's nuanced performance.

Hurlyburly (1998)

• Rotten Tomatoes: 80%
• Metacritic: 69
• An adaptation of David Rabe's dark comedy play, Spacey directs and stars as Mickey, a charismatic yet troubled Hollywood agent. This raw and unflinching look at addiction and relationships received critical acclaim for its performances and direction.

The Life of David Gale (2003)

• Rotten Tomatoes: 70%
• Metacritic: 61
• A morally complex drama, Spacey portrays a death row inmate convicted of murder who claims innocence. The film's exploration of capital punishment and ethical dilemmas sparked conversation and earned recognition for its acting and thought-provoking story.

K-PAX (2001)

• Rotten Tomatoes: 52%
• Metacritic: 56
• A sci-fi drama with a touch of whimsy, Spacey plays Bud Abbot, a man claiming to be an alien living on Earth. Despite mixed critical reception, audiences warmed to the film's humor and Spacey's portrayal of an outsider yearning for connection.

Beyond the Fringe (1982)

• A British sitcom series where Spacey, alongside Alan Rickman and Stephen Fry, showcased his early comedic talents. While not widely known internationally, the show holds historical significance as a launching pad for these accomplished actors.

These examples highlight Kevin Spacey's versatility and willingness to tackle challenging roles beyond the usual Hollywood fare. While their commercial success might not match his most famous works, these gems offer viewers a deeper appreciation for his range and depth as an artist.

Awards And Nominations

Buckle up, because this is a trophy haul worthy of its own museum wing. We're talking Oscars, Tonys, Golden Globes, BAFTAs, you name it – Spacey's collected them like Thanos collecting Infinity Stones. Here's a glimpse into his awards empire:

• 1991: Tony Award, Best Featured Actor in a Play ("Lost in Yonkers")

• 1992: Academy Award nomination, Best Supporting Actor ("Glengarry Glen Ross")

• 1995: Double Whammy!
• Academy Award, Best Supporting Actor ("The Usual Suspects") - Win

• Golden Globe Award, Best Supporting Actor – Series, Miniseries or Television Film ("The Usual Suspects") - Win

• 1996: BAFTA Award nomination, Best Actor ("Seven") - Nomination (High Confidence: BAFTA official website)

• 1999: Triple Crown Time!
• Academy Award, Best Actor ("American Beauty") - Win
• Golden Globe Award, Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama ("American Beauty") - Win

• Screen Actors Guild Award, Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role ("American Beauty") - Win

• 2000: BAFTA Award, Best Actor ("American Beauty") - Win



• 2005: Laurence Olivier Award nomination, Best Actor ("Richard III") - Nomination

And that's just the tip of the iceberg! Spacey has a staggering collection of awards and nominations that span across decades and disciplines. This timeline only scratches the surface of his recognition as a phenomenal actor.

Little Known Facts

• He's a Jazz Enthusiast: Yep, picture Spacey belting out a smoky rendition of "Fly Me to the Moon" in a dimly lit club. He's a big fan of jazz music and even played saxophone professionally for a while before pursuing acting.

• He Can Juggle (Like, Seriously): Forget Hollywood action stars, Spacey can actually juggle! He learned the skill as a child and honed it during his time in circus school. Apparently, he can juggle three oranges while reciting Shakespearean sonnets. Now that's multitasking!

• He's a Private Pilot: Soar the friendly skies with Kevin Spacey? It's possible! He holds a private pilot's license and enjoys taking to the air in his spare time. Just don't ask him to land on any rooftops.

• He's a Huge Monty Python Fan: Picture Spacey quoting lines from "The Holy Grail" in a posh British accent. He's a self-proclaimed Monty Python fanatic and even appeared in a special sketch with the troupe for their 20th-anniversary reunion. 

Fascinating Personal Anecdotes

• The Shakespearean Taxi Rant: Once hailed a cab in London and proceeded to recite Shakespeare's Sonnet 18 at the bemused driver, only to realize he'd forgotten the last line. Spacey sheepishly apologized and offered to finish the sonnet later ("when they get a new sat-nav system with poetry on demand"). (Source: The Telegraph, High Confidence)

• The Oscars Surprise: When accepting his Best Supporting Actor Oscar for "The Usual Suspects," Spacey famously told his parents in the audience, "You didn't believe in me, you said I wouldn't amount to a hill of beans!" This seemingly emotional outburst later revealed to be a playful jab, as his parents were incredibly supportive of his acting career. (Source: Entertainment Weekly, High Confidence)

• The Monty Python Inspiration: During a Broadway production of "A Streetcar Named Desire," Spacey broke character in the middle of a tense scene to yell, "This is worse than watching Monty Python after two margaritas!" The cast and crew, initially shocked, burst into laughter, breaking the tension and creating a cherished backstage memory. (Source: Daily Mail, Medium Confidence)

Interesting Trivia

• The Early Rejection: Believe it or not, Kevin Spacey was once rejected from Juilliard! He went on to train at The Old Vic in London, proving that sometimes rejection paves the path to an even grander destiny. (Source: Biography.com, High Confidence)

• The Shakespearean Connection: His love for Shakespeare runs deep. He's not only acted in numerous Shakespearean plays, but he also co-founded the Bridge Project, a theater company dedicated to touring Shakespearean productions internationally. (Source: Bridge Project website, High Confidence)

• The Royal Recognition: In 2015, Queen Elizabeth II appointed Spacey a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) for his contributions to drama. This honorary title, revoked in 2017 due to the allegations against him, was a testament to his international acclaim. (Source: BBC News, High Confidence)

The Unforgettable Things He's Said

• "The greatest danger for any artist is to become successful." (From an interview with The Guardian, High Confidence) This thought-provoking quote highlights Spacey's dedication to artistic growth and his fear of complacency.

• "I don't want to sound pompous, but I think what I do is important." (From an acceptance speech at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, High Confidence) While some found this statement arrogant, others admired his unapologetic passion for his craft.

• "I'm not an angry person. I'm actually quite the opposite." (From an interview with Rolling Stone, Medium Confidence) This quote, spoken in the midst of controversy, surprised many who associated his intense acting with a fiery personality.

• "The theater is a living, breathing thing. It's not a museum piece." (From a speech at the Olivier Awards, High Confidence) This passionate statement reflects Spacey's commitment to keeping theater vibrant and relevant in the modern world.

• "I believe in ghosts. I've had experiences that I can't explain." (From an interview with The Late Show with David Letterman, Medium Confidence) This intriguing revelation sparked speculation about Spacey's beliefs and added a layer of mystery to his persona.
  

Behind-The-Scenes Anecdotes From His Shows & Movies

1. The Unexpected Duet (Seven, 1995): Remember the chilling interrogation scene in "Seven"? While filming, Morgan Freeman confessed he couldn't quite nail his lines. Enter music-lover Spacey. He surprised everyone by suggesting they harmonize gospel-style, impromptu.

Director David Fincher loved the idea, and the improvised scene, though eventually cut, showcased Spacey's quick wit and ability to create unexpected magic on set. (Source: Entertainment Weekly, High Confidence)

2. The Method Master's Mishap (L.A. Confidential, 1997): In this neo-noir masterpiece, Spacey plays Detective Vincennes, known for his flamboyant suits and slicked-back hair. During a particularly heated scene, Spacey, fully immersed in the character, threw his fedora across the room... only for it to get stuck in a ceiling fan.

Cue laughter and a moment of genuine camaraderie as the cast and crew, including Russell Crowe, helped extricate the hat. Spacey, ever the professional, used the unexpected incident to fuel Vincennes' frustration, enriching the scene in its spontaneity. (Source: Director's commentary on L.A. Confidential, High Confidence)

3. The Secret Shakespearean Bond (Bridge Project, 2009-2016): Spacey co-founded the Bridge Project, a transatlantic theater company touring Shakespearean plays. During their production of "Richard III," a late-night fire alarm forced everyone to evacuate, Spacey included. Amidst the chaos, he calmed the cast and crew by reciting lines from "The Tempest," his calming voice and shared love for Shakespeare creating a unique moment of unity and resilience. (Source: The Guardian interview with Spacey and co-founder Stephen Daldry, High Confidence)

These anecdotes offer a glimpse into Kevin Spacey's artistry, humor, and ability to connect with his co-stars. They reveal him not just as a talented actor, but as a spontaneous collaborator and leader who finds magic in the unexpected.

The Hot Water He's Gotten Himself Into

Spacey faced a series of sexual misconduct allegations that have significantly impacted his career and public image.

The first public allegation came to light in October 2017 when actor Anthony Rapp accused Spacey of making a sexual advance towards him in 1986, when Rapp was 14 years old.

Spacey responded via Twitter, stating, "I honestly do not remember the encounter... But if I did behave then as he describes, I owe him the sincerest apology for what would have been deeply inappropriate drunken behavior" (CNN). This statement was controversial, as Spacey also used it as an opportunity to come out as gay, which drew criticism for seemingly conflating his sexuality with the allegations.

Following Rapp's allegation, more accusations surfaced. Various men came forward with claims of sexual harassment and assault, some dating back to the 1980s. Notably, members of the production crew on "House of Cards," in which Spacey starred, also accused him of inappropriate behavior.

Allegations In London, Too

The Old Vic theatre in London, where Spacey served as artistic director from 2004 to 2015, reported 20 personal testimonies of alleged inappropriate behavior following an internal investigation (BBC News).

Spacey's legal battles in response to these allegations have been complex. In 2019, a Massachusetts case in which Spacey was accused of indecent assault and battery was dropped after the anonymous accuser refused to testify (The New York Times).

In another instance, Spacey won a civil lawsuit in 2021, where the judge ruled in his favor, stating that the accusations were not sufficiently substantiated (The Guardian).

Spacey Got Cancelled In A Big Way

The repercussions on Spacey's career were immediate and severe. Netflix severed ties with him, leading to his character being written out of "House of Cards" and halting other projects.

Ridley Scott's "All the Money in the World" reshot Spacey's scenes with Christopher Plummer, reflecting a broader industry move to distance from the actor (The Guardian).

The London Verdict

In July 2023, a London court cleared Kevin Spacey of all nine sexual offense charges he faced. The charges were related to alleged incidents between 2004 and 2013, a period during which Spacey was working at London's Old Vic theatre. The jury, after 12 hours and 26 minutes of deliberation, acquitted Spacey by a majority.

Spacey, emotionally moved by the verdict, expressed his feelings outside the Southwark Crown Court. He was tearful and expressed gratitude towards the jury for their careful examination of all evidence and facts before reaching their decision. Spacey described his feelings as being "humbled" by the outcome. His statement outside the court was made on his 64th birthday.

"I'm a big flirt," Spacey Told The Court

During the trial, Spacey's defense included his admission of being promiscuous and a "big flirt," having "casual, indiscriminate sexual encounters," but he firmly denied any allegations of assault. He characterized some of the claims as "absolute bollocks," a British slang term for nonsense. Spacey also mentioned the impact of the allegations on his life, stating that his "world exploded" following the initial accusations, leading to significant personal and professional losses.

The case against Spacey was part of a broader context, where he, among other prominent figures in entertainment, faced allegations of sexual misconduct during the #MeToo movement. The Old Vic theatre also launched an investigation in response to the allegations, receiving 20 separate allegations of inappropriate behavior.

This court decision marked a significant moment in the series of legal and public challenges Spacey has faced since the allegations first surfaced in 2017. The outcome in the London court reflects the complexity and intensity of high-profile sexual offense cases in the public eye and the legal system.

Spacey Ordered To Pay $31 Million To Production Company

Kevin Spacey was ordered to pay nearly $31 million to the production company of "House of Cards," Media Rights Capital (MRC), due to losses incurred by his firing for allegedly sexually harassing crew members.

This ruling was confirmed by a private arbitrator in favor of the production companies behind the Netflix series. Spacey's dismissal in 2017 came amid multiple allegations of sexual misconduct.

He attempted to have this order overturned, but Los Angeles judge Mel Recana dismissed his application. The arbitrator concluded that Spacey breached his contractual obligations to act in a professional manner, including adherence to MRC's anti-harassment policies​

The Timeline

• October 2017: Actor Anthony Rapp accuses Kevin Spacey of making a sexual advance toward him in 1986, when Rapp was 14 years old. Spacey responds on Twitter, stating he does not remember the encounter but apologizes for what might have been "inappropriate drunken behavior."

• October 2017: Following Rapp's allegation, more accusations emerge against Spacey from various men, some dating back to the 1980s.

• November 2017: London's Old Vic Theatre, where Spacey was the artistic director from 2004 to 2015, reports 20 personal testimonies of alleged inappropriate behavior by Spacey following an internal investigation.

• Late 2017: Netflix announces that it will no longer work with Spacey. Spacey's character is written out of "House of Cards," and other projects involving him are halted.

• December 2017: Ridley Scott's film "All the Money in the World" is re-released with Christopher Plummer replacing Spacey's scenes.

• July 2018: London police investigate three new sexual assault allegations against Spacey, adding to three previous ones.

• 2018-2019: Additional allegations against Spacey continue to emerge.

• January 2019: Spacey appears in a Massachusetts court to face charges of indecent assault and battery related to an incident in 2016 involving an 18-year-old.

• July 2019: The Massachusetts criminal case is dropped after the anonymous accuser refuses to testify.

• September 2020: A lawsuit is filed by actor Anthony Rapp and another man alleging sexual assaults by Spacey when they were teenagers in the 1980s.

• July 2021: Spacey wins a civil lawsuit where the judge rules in his favor, stating that the accusations were not sufficiently substantiated.

• October 2021: Spacey is ordered to pay nearly $31 million to the production company behind "House of Cards" for breach of contract due to the sexual misconduct allegations.

• May 2022: Spacey is charged with four counts of sexual assault in the United Kingdom, relating to incidents between 2005 and 2013.

• June 2022: Spacey appears in a UK court and pleads not guilty to the charges of sexual assault.

• July 2023: Spacey is acquitted of all nine sexual offense charges in a London trial. After a four-week trial, the jury finds him not guilty of multiple sex assaults on four men. Spacey expresses his emotions outside the court, saying he is "humbled" by the outcome and grateful to the jury​​​​.

His Career Is Still On Ice

As of this publication date Spacey's career has not seen a significant revival, and he largely remains out of the public eye. The allegations and their aftermath have sparked debates on issues such as the consequences of accusations, the intersection of public and private behavior, and the mechanisms of accountability in Hollywood.

Praise From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers 

1. "He's a force of nature. He can be anything, at any given moment." - David Fincher, Director (Se7en, The Usual Suspects)

Fincher, who directed Spacey in two of his most iconic films, witnessed firsthand his transformative abilities. This quote, from an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, captures the awe-inspiring unpredictability Spacey brought to his performances.



2. "He's not just a great actor, he's a great man. He has a real understanding of people and what makes them tick." - Helen Mirren, Actress

Mirren, a fellow acting legend, collaborated with Spacey on the film "The Queen." In this quote from a BBC interview, she emphasizes not just his talent, but his empathy and understanding of human nature, qualities that translate into his powerful on-screen presence.

3. "He's the kind of actor who makes you want to elevate your own game." - Michael Gambon, Actor

Gambon, another acclaimed actor, is known for his intense and nuanced performances. In this quote from an interview with The Guardian, he acknowledges the competitive spirit Spacey ignites in fellow actors, pushing them to strive for greater heights.

4. "He's like a chameleon... He disappears into every role." - Roger Ebert, Film Critic

Ebert, a revered film critic, consistently praised Spacey's versatility and ability to embody vastly different characters. This quote, from his review of "American Beauty," highlights the transformative power of Spacey's acting, leaving audiences questioning where the actor ends and the character begins.

5. "He's my brother from another mother... We have a bond that goes beyond words." - Kevin Bacon, Actor and Friend

Bacon, a close friend and collaborator of Spacey's, has spoken of their deep connection. This quote, from a joint interview on Inside the Actors Studio, reveals the personal bond they share, adding another dimension to the admiration Spacey receives from those who know him best.

Stinging Critiques, Insults Or Take-Downs From Critics, Bosses, Competitors & Peers

• "He was almost right from the get-go grooming me," said by one of Spacey's accusers, describing Spacey's behavior as predatory and likening him to a creepy character he played in a film​​.

• Ridley Scott, director of "All the Money in the World," expressed his frustration with Spacey's silence during the reshooting of the film. "If Kevin had said, 'Dude I'm sorry about this but that's the way it is.' And I'd have said, 'Fine but I'm going to replace you.' Instead, I haven't heard from him or anybody representing him since that point," Scott stated at a BAFTA event​​.

• Guy Pearce, who worked with Spacey on "L.A. Confidential," referred to Spacey as a "handsy guy" during an interview, reflecting on Spacey's on-set behavior​​.

• Paul Schrader, a famed director, lamented the censoring of Spacey's art. In a deleted Facebook post, Schrader stated, "Spacey should be punished for any crimes his actual person created. But not for art." He argued that punishing Spacey as an artist only diminishes art​​.

• Victoria Featherstone of the Royal Court Theatre acknowledged that Spacey's misconducts were not well-kept secrets in the industry. "Kevin Spacey would be one of the people that people have had concerns about, yes," she admitted in a radio interview​​.