View source for Kevin Spacey

{{Short description|American actor (born 1959)}}
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{{Use American English|date=November 2025}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=September 2024}}
{{Infobox person
| name               = Kevin Spacey
| image              = Kevin Spacey-9243.jpg
| caption            = Spacey in 2025
| birth_name         = Kevin Spacey Fowler
| birth_date         = {{birth date and age|mf=yes|1959|7|26}}
| birth_place        = [[South Orange, New Jersey]], U.S.
| occupation         = {{flatlist|
* Actor
* film producer
}}
| education          = [[Juilliard School]]
| years_active       = 1981–present
| works              = [[Kevin Spacey on screen and stage|Full list]]
| awards             = [[List of awards and nominations received by Kevin Spacey|Full list]]
| website            = {{URL|kevinspacey.com}}
}}
'''Kevin Spacey Fowler''' (born July 26, 1959)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kevin Spacey |url=https://goldenglobes.com/person/kevin-spacey/ |access-date=May 8, 2024 |website=Golden Globes |archive-date=May 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240508171831/https://goldenglobes.com/person/kevin-spacey/ |url-status=live }}</ref> is an American actor. Known for [[Kevin Spacey on screen and stage|his work on stage and screen]], he [[List of awards and nominations received by Kevin Spacey|has received numerous accolades]], including two [[Academy Awards]], a [[BAFTA Award]], a [[Golden Globe Award]], a [[Tony Award]], and two [[Laurence Olivier Awards]] as well as nominations for 12 [[Emmy Awards]].

Spacey began his film career with small roles in [[Mike Nichols]]'s comedy-drama films ''[[Heartburn (film)|Heartburn]]'' (1986) and ''[[Working Girl]]'' (1988). He won two Academy Awards: [[Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor|Best Supporting Actor]] for playing a con man in ''[[The Usual Suspects]]'' (1995) and [[Academy Award for Best Actor|Best Actor]] for playing a suburban husband and father going through a [[midlife crisis]] in ''[[American Beauty (1999 film)|American Beauty]]'' (1999). His other films include ''[[Glengarry Glen Ross (film)|Glengarry Glen Ross]]'' (1992), ''[[Outbreak (1995 film)|Outbreak]]'' (1995), ''[[Seven (1995 film)|Se7en]]'' (1995), ''[[A Time to Kill (1996 film)|A Time to Kill]]'' (1996), ''[[L.A. Confidential (film)|L.A. Confidential]]'' (1997), ''[[Pay It Forward (film)|Pay It Forward]]'' (2000), ''[[Superman Returns]]'' (2006), ''[[21 (2008 film)|21]]'' (2008), ''[[Margin Call]]'' (2011), ''[[Horrible Bosses]]'' (2011), and ''[[Baby Driver]]'' (2017). He has also directed the films ''[[Albino Alligator]]'' (1996) and ''[[Beyond the Sea (2004 film)|Beyond the Sea]]'' (2004).

In Broadway theatre, Spacey starred in a revival of [[Eugene O'Neill]]'s ''[[Long Day's Journey into Night]]'' in 1986. He won a [[Tony Award]] in 1991 for his role in ''[[Lost in Yonkers]]''. He won a [[Laurence Olivier Award]] for his performance in a revival of ''[[The Iceman Cometh]]'' in 1999. Spacey portrayed the [[Richard III|title role]] in ''[[Richard III (play)|Richard III]]'' in 2011 and [[Clarence Darrow]] in a [[West End (theatre)|West End]] production of ''Darrow'' in 2015. He was the artistic director of the [[Old Vic]] theatre in London from 2004 to 2015, for which he received the [[Society of London Theatre Special Award]]. He was named an honorary [[Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire]] in 2015. In 2017, he hosted the [[71st Tony Awards]].

In television, Spacey portrayed [[Ron Klain]] in ''[[Recount (film)|Recount]]'' (2008) and produced ''[[Bernard and Doris]]'' (2008), both for [[HBO Films]]. From 2013 to 2017, he starred as [[Frank Underwood (House of Cards)|Frank Underwood]] in the [[Netflix]] political drama series ''[[House of Cards (American TV series)|House of Cards]]'', which won him a [[Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Drama|Golden Globe Award]] and two consecutive [[Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series|Screen Actors Guild Awards]] for Best Actor.<ref>{{cite web|first=Natalie|last=Stone|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/kevin-spacey-wins-sag-award-860546|title=SAG Awards: Kevin Spacey Makes Cryptic Relativity Reference After Win|magazine=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|date=January 30, 2016|access-date=May 21, 2020|archive-date=August 4, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200804220655/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/kevin-spacey-wins-sag-award-860546|url-status=live}}</ref> Both Spacey and the show itself were nominated for five consecutive [[Primetime Emmy Awards]] for [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series|Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series]] and [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series|Outstanding Drama Series]], respectively.

In 2017, Spacey faced several [[Kevin Spacey sexual misconduct allegations|allegations of sexual misconduct]]. In 2018 and 2019, Spacey faced multiple criminal investigations; however, in each case Spacey was either not charged or the charges against him were dropped.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Reiss |date=October 30, 2019 |title=Kevin Spacey won't face sexual assault charges after his accuser dies |url=https://www.thepinknews.com/2019/10/30/kevin-spacey-sexual-assault-charges-dies/ |access-date=July 19, 2024 |website=PinkNews |archive-date=June 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619221804/https://www.thepinknews.com/2019/10/30/kevin-spacey-sexual-assault-charges-dies/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |author=Matt Rocheleau |title=Prosecutors drop assault case against actor Kevin Spacey |newspaper=The Boston Globe |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2019/07/17/cape-prosecuotors-drop-charge-against-actor-kevin-spacey/SwsMJZtNZ0Jh642UpgGCTO/story.html |access-date=July 19, 2024 |archive-date=May 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220529103644/https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2019/07/17/cape-prosecuotors-drop-charge-against-actor-kevin-spacey/SwsMJZtNZ0Jh642UpgGCTO/story.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |agency=Press Association |date=September 4, 2018 |title=Kevin Spacey will not face charges over Los Angeles sexual assault claim |url=https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2018/sep/05/kevin-spacey-will-not-face-charges-over-los-angeles-sexual-assault-claim |access-date=July 19, 2024 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> He has denied the accusations and was found not liable in a 2022 lawsuit in New York. In a separate case in London, he was acquitted by a jury of sexual assault charges in 2023.<ref name="nbcnews.com">{{cite news|last= Arkin|first= Daniel|url= https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/celebrity/kevin-spacey-trial-verdict-reached-jurors-sex-abuse-suit-brought-antho-rcna53266|title= Kevin Spacey found not liable in sex abuse suit brought by Anthony Rapp|website= [[NBC News]]|date= October 20, 2022|access-date= October 20, 2022|archive-date= November 12, 2023|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20231112054512/https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/celebrity/kevin-spacey-trial-verdict-reached-jurors-sex-abuse-suit-brought-antho-rcna53266|url-status= live}}</ref><ref name="cnn.com">{{cite news|first1=Catherine|last1=Nicholls|first2=Christian|last2=Edwards|url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/26/uk/kevin-spacey-trial-jury-verdict-intl/index.html|title=Actor Kevin Spacey cleared of all charges of sexual assault|website=[[CNN]]|date=July 26, 2023|access-date=July 26, 2023|archive-date=November 14, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114142247/https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/26/uk/kevin-spacey-trial-jury-verdict-intl/index.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Early life, family and education==
Kevin Spacey Fowler was born in [[South Orange, New Jersey]], to Kathleen Ann (''née'' Knutson), a secretary, and Thomas Geoffrey Fowler, a [[technical writer]] and data consultant.<ref name="name">{{cite news|first=Paul |last=Fischer |title=The Alien World of Kevin Spacey |work= FilmMonthly.com |url=http://www.filmmonthly.com/profiles/Articles/KSpacey/KSpacey.html|date=October 20, 2001 |archive-date=January 24, 2007 |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070124110051/http://www.filmmonthly.com/profiles/Articles/KSpacey/KSpacey.html }}</ref><ref name= dlrehioho>{{cite encyclopedia | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=92bJlWbPeKMC&q=Kevin+Spacey |title=Fowler, Kevin Spacey |publisher= Marquis Who's Who |encyclopedia= Who's who in the world, 1991–1992 | volume = 10 | page = 348 | location = Wilmette, Illinois | year = 1990 | isbn = 978-0-8379-1110-6 | access-date = March 13, 2023 | archive-date = September 8, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230908053438/https://books.google.com/books?id=92bJlWbPeKMC&q=Kevin+Spacey | url-status = live }}</ref> His family relocated to [[Southern California]] when he was four years old.<ref name=bio>{{cite web |url=http://www.biography.com/people/kevin-spacey-9489645 |title=Kevin Spacey Biography |website=[[Biography.com]] |access-date=November 15, 2015 |archive-date=November 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117190619/http://www.biography.com/people/kevin-spacey-9489645 |url-status=live }}</ref> Spacey has a sister and an older brother, Randy Fowler, from whom Spacey is [[family estrangement|estranged]].<ref>{{Cite web|first=Ashley|last=Feinberg|url=http://gawker.com/kevin-spaceys-brother-is-a-limo-driving-rod-stewart-imp-1728756763|title=Kevin Spacey's Brother Is a Limo-Driving Rod Stewart Impersonator in Boise|website=[[Gawker]]|date=April 9, 2015|access-date=October 30, 2017|archive-date=November 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191121122849/https://gawker.com/kevin-spaceys-brother-is-a-limo-driving-rod-stewart-imp-1728756763|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Randy Fowler Memoir">{{Cite news|first=Kyle|last=Zach|url=http://www.idahostatesman.com/news/business/article41570688.html|title=Meet Randy Fowler, Boise's Rod Stewart-impersonating, limo-driving brother of Kevin Spacey|newspaper=[[Idaho Statesman]]|date=September 27, 2015|access-date=November 3, 2017|archive-date=April 6, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406063916/https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/business/article41570688.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Estranged Brothers">{{Cite news |first1=Nicole |last1=Blanchard |first2=Dana |last2=Oland |url=http://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/article181803111.html |title=Sex allegation against Spacey revives his Boise brother's story of their abusive dad |newspaper=Idaho Statesman |date=October 30, 2017 |access-date=October 31, 2017 |archive-date=April 6, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406063916/https://www.idahostatesman.com/news/local/article181803111.html |url-status=live }}</ref> His brother has stated that their father, whom he described as a racist "[[Nazi]] supporter", was [[child sexual abuse|sexually]] and [[physically abusive]], and that Spacey shut down emotionally and became "very sly and smart" to avoid beatings.<ref name="independent">{{cite news| first = Maya| last = Oppenheim| url = https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/kevin-spacey-brother-father-sexual-abuse-actor-randall-fowler-thomas-geoffrey-fowler-a8029776.html| title = Kevin Spacey's brother claims 'Nazi' father sexually abused him| newspaper = [[The Independent]]| date = October 31, 2017| access-date = October 31, 2017| archive-date = October 31, 2017| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171031161712/http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/kevin-spacey-brother-father-sexual-abuse-actor-randall-fowler-thomas-geoffrey-fowler-a8029776.html| url-status = live}}</ref> Spacey first addressed the matter in October 2022, saying that his father was "a [[white supremacist]] and a [[neo-Nazi]]" who would call him "an [[Faggot (slang)|F-word]] that is very derogatory to the [[gay]] community".<ref name= "LangFerme">{{cite magazine|first1=Brent|last1=Lang|first2=Antonio|last2=Ferme|url=https://variety.com/2022/film/news/kevin-spacey-gay-father-white-supremacist-neo-nazi-1235405992/|title=Kevin Spacey Says He Didn't Publicly Come Out as Gay Because His Father Was a 'White Supremacist and a Neo-Nazi'|magazine=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|date=October 17, 2022|access-date=October 17, 2022|archive-date=October 17, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221017172108/https://variety.com/2022/film/news/kevin-spacey-gay-father-white-supremacist-neo-nazi-1235405992/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|first=Victoria|last=Bekiempis|url=https://www.vulture.com/2022/10/kevin-spacey-trial-dad-neo-nazi-testimony.html|title=Kevin Spacey Just Claimed His Dad Was a Neo-Nazi|magazine=[[New York (magazine)|Vulture]]|date=October 17, 2022|access-date=October 17, 2022|archive-date=October 17, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221017171500/https://www.vulture.com/2022/10/kevin-spacey-trial-dad-neo-nazi-testimony.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He stated that, as a result, he became extremely private about his personal life and did not [[come out]] as gay earlier in his life.<ref name="LangFerme"/> Spacey had previously described his father as "a very normal, middle-class man".<ref>{{cite news|first=Chris|last=Graham|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/10/31/kevin-spaceys-nazi-abusive-father-spotlight-amid-sex-scandal/|title=Kevin Spacey's 'Nazi' and 'abusive' father in spotlight amid sex scandal|newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph]]|date=October 31, 2017|access-date=June 14, 2022|archive-date=June 15, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220615055644/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/10/31/kevin-spaceys-nazi-abusive-father-spotlight-amid-sex-scandal/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Spacey attended Northridge Military Academy, [[Canoga Park High School]] in the 10th and 11th grades. He graduated [[valedictorian|co-valedictorian]] (along with [[Mare Winningham]]) of the class of 1977 of [[Chatsworth High School]] in [[Chatsworth, Los Angeles]], California.<ref>{{cite encyclopedia|first=Barbara|last=Whitney|url=https://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/710901/Kevin-Spacey|title=Kevin Spacey|encyclopedia=[[Encyclopædia Britannica]]|year=2008|access-date=June 2, 2008|archive-date=July 16, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100716073119/http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/710901/Kevin-Spacey|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=13 Famous Valedictorians |url=http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/departments/college/?article=FamousValedictorians |website= [[MSN Encarta]] |year=2008 |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091025233012/http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/departments/college/?article=FamousValedictorians |archive-date=October 25, 2009 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cinequest.org/events/159568/conversation-kevin-spacey|title=A Conversation with Kevin Spacey|website=Cinequest|access-date=October 30, 2017|archive-date=September 6, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180906115910/https://www.cinequest.org/events/159568/conversation-kevin-spacey|url-status=live}}</ref> At Chatsworth, Spacey starred in the school's senior production of ''[[The Sound of Music]]'', playing the part of [[Georg Ludwig von Trapp|Captain Georg von Trapp]], with Winningham as [[Maria von Trapp]]. He started using his middle name "Spacey", which was his paternal grandmother's maiden name.<ref name=dlrehioho /><ref name= "soroff">{{cite news|first=Jonathan |last= Soroff |title=Soroff/On Kevin Spacey |url= http://www.drivingmrspacey.com/TheImproperBostonian.htm |work=[[The Improper Bostonian]] |date=January 2004|access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080420102041/http://www.drivingmrspacey.com/TheImproperBostonian.htm |archive-date= April 20, 2008}}</ref> Spacey had tried to succeed as a comedian for several years before attending the [[Juilliard School]] in New York City, as a member of [[List of Juilliard School people|Group 12]], where he studied drama with teacher [[Marian Seldes]]<ref>{{cite news|first=Kevin|last=Spacey|url=https://nypost.com/2014/10/10/kevin-spacey-writes-about-his-late-teacher-marian-seldes/|title=Kevin Spacey pays tribute to the Juilliard teacher who gave him 'wings'|work=[[New York Post]]|date=October 10, 2014|access-date=March 19, 2018|archive-date=March 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180319214436/https://nypost.com/2014/10/10/kevin-spacey-writes-about-his-late-teacher-marian-seldes/|url-status=live}}</ref> between 1979 and 1981. During this time period, he performed comedy in [[bowling alley]] talent contests.<ref name="abc">{{cite interview |title=Kevin Spacey |interviewer=Andrew Denton |url=http://www.abc.net.au/tv/enoughrope/transcripts/s1679270.htm |type=Interview: video |series=Enough rope |work= [[American Broadcasting Company|ABC]] |date=July 10, 2006 |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080430103311/http://www.abc.net.au/tv/enoughrope/transcripts/s1679270.htm |archive-date=April 30, 2008 }}</ref>

==Career==
=== 1981–1989: Early roles and breakthrough ===
[[File:Kevin Spacey and Liv Ullmann.jpg|thumb|Spacey and [[Liv Ullmann]] on the set of ''[[Ghosts (play)|Ghosts]]'' at the [[Eisenhower Theater]] in 1982]]
Spacey's first professional stage appearance was as a [[spear carrier]] in a [[New York Shakespeare Festival]] performance of ''[[Henry VI, Part 1]]'' in 1981.<ref>{{cite web|last=Spacey|first=Kevin|url=http://www.kevinspacey.com/theatre/item/henry-iv-part-one/|title=Henry IV Part One|website=kevinspacey.com|access-date=October 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171103185058/http://www.kevinspacey.com/theatre/item/henry-iv-part-one/|archive-date=November 3, 2017}}</ref> The following year, he made his first [[Broadway theatre|Broadway]] appearance, as Oswald in a production of [[Henrik Ibsen]]'s ''[[Ghosts (play)|Ghosts]]'', starring [[Liv Ullmann]] and director [[John Neville (actor)|John Neville]], which opened at the [[Eisenhower Theater]] in Washington's [[Kennedy Center]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=David |title='Ghosts' in a New Age |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/lifestyle/1982/07/20/ghosts-in-a-new-age/19b9383d-668f-4c2f-b5bb-211ffffd8437/ |access-date=March 28, 2022 |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |date=July 20, 1982 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Ghosts |url=https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/ghosts-4181 |website=Internet Broadway Database |access-date=October 19, 2021 |archive-date=January 30, 2022 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220130/https://www.ibdb.com/broadway-production/ghosts-4181 |url-status=live }}</ref> He then portrayed Philinte in [[Molière]]'s ''[[The Misanthrope]]''. In 1984, Spacey appeared in a production of [[David Rabe]]'s ''[[Hurlyburly]]'', in which he rotated through each of the male parts (he would later play Mickey in the [[Hurlyburly (film)|film version]]). Next came [[Anton Chekhov]]'s ''[[The Seagull]]'' alongside [[David Strathairn]] and [[Colleen Dewhurst]]. In 1986, Spacey appeared in a production of ''[[Sleuth (play)|Sleuth]]'' in a [[New Jersey]] [[dinner theatre]].<ref name="cornucopia">{{cite magazine |first=Pat |last=Cerasaro |url=http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/FLASH-FRIDAY-A-Kevin-Spacey-Cornucopia-Stage-Big-Screen-Small-Screen-NOW-20140502 |title=Flash Friday: A Kevin Spacey Cornucopia — Stage, Big Screen, Small Screen & Now |magazine=Broadway World |date=May 2, 2014 |access-date=November 15, 2015 |archive-date=November 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117020616/http://www.broadwayworld.com/article/FLASH-FRIDAY-A-Kevin-Spacey-Cornucopia-Stage-Big-Screen-Small-Screen-NOW-20140502 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Spacey's prominence as a stage actor began in 1986, when he was cast opposite [[Jack Lemmon]], [[Peter Gallagher]], and [[Bethel Leslie]], as Jamie, the eldest Tyrone son, in [[Jonathan Miller]]'s lauded production of [[Eugene O'Neill]]'s ''[[Long Day's Journey into Night]]''. Lemmon in particular would become a mentor to Spacey<ref name="parade">{{cite news|first=James|last=Brady|url=https://www.kevinspacey.com/press/item/parade/|title=In Step With: Kevin Spacey|magazine=[[Parade (magazine)|Parade]]|via=kevinspacey.com|date=December 5, 2004|access-date=February 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171103185934/http://www.kevinspacey.com/press/item/parade/|archive-date=November 3, 2017}}</ref> and was invited, along with Spacey's high school drama teacher, to be present when Spacey received his star on the [[Hollywood Walk of Fame]] in 1999.<ref>{{cite magazine | first = Michael | last = Buckley | url = http://www.playbill.com/article/stage-to-screens-kevin-spacey-talks-about-his-new-film-and-his-idols-com-163095 | title = Stage to Screens: Kevin Spacey Talks About His New Film, and His Idols | magazine = [[Playbill]] | date = July 27, 2009 | access-date = October 30, 2017 | archive-date = November 7, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171107022247/http://www.playbill.com/article/stage-to-screens-kevin-spacey-talks-about-his-new-film-and-his-idols-com-163095 | url-status = live }}</ref> In 1986, Spacey made his first film appearance in [[Mike Nichols]]'s ''[[Heartburn (film)|Heartburn]]'' starring [[Meryl Streep]] and [[Jack Nicholson]]. Spacey plays a small role credited as a subway thief. In 1988, Spacey also briefly appeared in another Nichols film, ''[[Working Girl]]'', as businessman Bob Speck. Some of Spacey's other early roles include a widowed millionaire on ''[[L.A. Law]]''; the television miniseries ''[[The Murder of Mary Phagan]]'' (1988), opposite Lemmon; and the comedy ''[[See No Evil, Hear No Evil (film)|See No Evil, Hear No Evil]]'' (1989). In 1987, Spacey made his first major television appearance in the second-season premiere of ''[[Crime Story (U.S. TV series)|Crime Story]]'', playing a [[Kennedy family|Kennedy-esque]] American senator. That same year he appeared in spy thriller series ''[[The Equalizer (1985 TV series)|The Equalizer]]'' as Detective Sergeant Cole in the episode "Solo". He earned a fan base after playing the [[manic depressive]] arms dealer Mel Profitt on the television series ''[[Wiseguy (TV series)|Wiseguy]]'' (1988).<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://ew.com/gallery/50-biggest-emmy-snubs-no-50-26/?slide=330949#330949 |title=50 Biggest Emmy Snubs |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |date=July 17, 2008 |access-date=January 8, 2024 |archive-date=July 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230716005332/https://ew.com/gallery/50-biggest-emmy-snubs-no-50-26/?slide=330949#330949 |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== 1990–1999: Stardom and acclaim === 
[[File:Kevin Spacey (48171134437).jpg|thumb|upright|left|Spacey in 1996]]
Spacey remained actively involved in the live theatre community. In 1991, he won a [[Tony Award]] for his portrayal of Uncle Louie in [[Neil Simon]]'s Broadway hit ''[[Lost in Yonkers]]''. His father was unconvinced that Spacey could make a career for himself as an actor and did not change his mind until Spacey became well known.<ref name="abc" /> Spacey quickly developed a reputation as a [[character actor]], and was cast in bigger roles, including the malevolent office manager in the ensemble film adaptation of the [[David Mamet]] play ''[[Glengarry Glen Ross (film)|Glengarry Glen Ross]]'' (1992) starring [[Al Pacino]], as well as news reporter Harry Kingsley in a film based on a 1917 [[dog sled race]] ''[[Iron Will]]'' (1994) directed by [[Charles Haid]]. Spacey also played one-half of a bickering [[Connecticut]] couple alongside [[Judy Davis]] in the [[dark comedy]] Christmas film ''[[The Ref]]'' (1994), and a malicious Hollywood studio boss in the satire ''[[Swimming with Sharks]]'' (1995). Spacey gained prominence for his role as the enigmatic criminal [[Verbal Kint]] in [[Bryan Singer]]'s [[neo-noir]] film ''[[The Usual Suspects]]'' (1995). He starred opposite an ensemble cast including [[Gabriel Byrne]], [[Benicio del Toro]], and [[Chazz Palminteri]]. Todd McCarthy of ''[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]'' wrote, "Spacey is terrific as the mysterious weak link in the chain of thieves".<ref>{{cite web|url= https://variety.com/1995/film/reviews/the-usual-suspects-1200439940/|title= The Usual Suspects|website= Variety|date= January 27, 1995|access-date= January 20, 2024|archive-date= April 8, 2023|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230408041024/https://variety.com/1995/film/reviews/the-usual-suspects-1200439940/|url-status= live}}</ref> The role won him the [[Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor]]. He was also nominated for the [[Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture]] and [[Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role|Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Actor in a Supporting Role]].<ref name=tca>{{cite episode |title=Kevin Spacey |series=Inside the Actors Studio |date=July 2, 2000 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26GE33raQNQ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191104191512/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26GE33raQNQ&gl=US&hl=en| archive-date=November 4, 2019 |network=Bravo |season=6 |number=10|last=Lipton |first=James (host)}}</ref> That same year, Spacey also appeared in the [[David Fincher]] detective thriller ''[[Seven (1995 film)|Seven]]'' (1995) starring [[Brad Pitt]] and [[Morgan Freeman]]. Spacey made a sudden entrance late in the film as [[serial killer]] John Doe after going uncredited and unmentioned in the film's advertisements and opening credits. His work in ''Seven'', ''The Usual Suspects'' and ''[[Outbreak (1995 film)|Outbreak]]'' earned him Best Supporting Actor honors at the 1995 [[Society of Texas Film Critics Awards 1995|Society of Texas Film Critics Awards]].<ref name="aas951230">{{cite news |first=Abraham |last=Levy |url=http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=AASB&p_theme=aasb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EAD97C511DD8C8F&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D |title=Texas film critics give 'Suspects' top honors |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |date=December 30, 1995 |access-date=December 17, 2010 |archive-date=October 23, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181023034756/http://nl.newsbank.com/nl-search/we/Archives?p_product=AASB&p_theme=aasb&p_action=search&p_maxdocs=200&p_topdoc=1&p_text_direct-0=0EAD97C511DD8C8F&p_field_direct-0=document_id&p_perpage=10&p_sort=YMD_date:D |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="ac960105">{{cite news |url=http://www.austinchronicle.com/gyrobase/Issue/story?oid=oid%3A530347 |title=The Society of Texas Film Critics 1995 Awards |work=[[The Austin Chronicle]] |date=January 5, 1996 |access-date=February 26, 2018 |archive-date=April 4, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150404113847/http://www.austinchronicle.com/gyrobase/Issue/story?oid=oid%3A530347 |url-status=live }}</ref>

Spacey played an egomaniacal [[district attorney]] in ''[[A Time to Kill (1996 film)|A Time to Kill]]'' (1996) and founded [[Trigger Street Productions]] in 1997 with the purpose of producing and developing entertainment across various media. Spacey made his directorial debut with the film ''[[Albino Alligator]]'' (1996). The film was a [[box-office bomb]], grossing {{US dollar|339,379|long=no}} with a budget of {{US dollar|6 million|long=no}}, but critics praised Spacey's direction. He starred in the [[Curtis Hanson]] directed [[neo-noir]] crime film ''[[L.A. Confidential (film)|L.A. Confidential]]'' (1997) acting alongside [[Russell Crowe]], [[Guy Pearce]], and [[Kim Basinger]]. Spacey played the Detective Sergeant Jack Vincennes, an officer and technical advisor for a fictional TV police drama series. The ensemble cast received praise with Jack Matthews of ''[[Newsday]]'' citing Spacey as the highlight writing, "Best of all are Spacey striking an impossible balance of smarminess and charm".<ref>{{cite news|url= https://www.newspapers.com/article/newsday-suffolk-edition-la-confident/87344349/|title= A 90s Chinatown depicts a 50s LA|newspaper= Newsday (Suffolk Edition)|date= September 19, 1997|page= 110|access-date= January 20, 2024|archive-date= January 20, 2024|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20240120133927/https://www.newspapers.com/article/newsday-suffolk-edition-la-confident/87344349/|url-status= live}}</ref> The role landed Spacey a nomination for the [[BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role]]. The following year he voiced the intimidating grasshopper, Hopper in the animated [[Pixar]] film ''[[A Bug's Life]]'' (1998).<ref name="cornucopia" /> Throughout his career, Spacey has been well known for playing villains; he remarked in 2013: "I think people just like me evil for some reason. They want me to be a son of a bitch."<ref>{{cite magazine |first= Chris | last = Nashawaty| title=Kevin Spacey: Good 'n' Evil |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]]|date=February 8, 2013}}</ref> Spacey hosted ''[[Saturday Night Live]]'' twice: first in 1997 with musical guest [[Beck]] and special guests [[Michael Palin]] and [[John Cleese]] from ''[[Monty Python's Flying Circus]]'' and again in May 2006 with musical guest [[Nelly Furtado]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Green |first=Matt |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=m4B2DQAAQBAJ&dq=spacey+hosted+saturday+night+live+1997+2006+nelly+furtado&pg=PP7 |title=Celebrity Biographies - The Amazing Life of Kevin Spacey - Famous Actors |publisher=Matt Green |language=en}}</ref>{{self-published inline|date=July 2024}}

In 1999, Spacey acted alongside [[Annette Bening]] in [[Sam Mendes]]'s ''[[American Beauty (1999 film)|American Beauty]]''. In the film he played the role of Lester Burnham, a depressed suburban father and advertising executive who becomes attracted to his teenage daughter's best friend. The film and its performance received widespread acclaim, particularly Spacey with critic [[Roger Ebert]] declaring, "Spacey, an actor who embodies intelligence in his eyes and voice, is the right choice for Lester Burnham. He does reckless and foolish things in this movie, but he doesn't deceive himself; he knows he's running wild--and chooses to, burning up the future years of an empty lifetime for a few flashes of freedom".<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/american-beauty-1999|title= American Beauty|access-date= January 20, 2024|archive-date= August 9, 2020|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200809113215/https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/american-beauty-1999|url-status= live}}</ref> For this role, Spacey won his second [[Academy Awards|Oscar]], this time for [[Best Actor in a Leading Role]]. In his acceptance speech he dedicated his Oscar to [[Jack Lemmon]], praising him as an influence, mentor, and father figure. He also stated, "[Lemmon's] performance in ''[[The Apartment]]'' stands as one of the finest we've ever had".<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCjt7PME5_E|title= Kevin Spacey Wins Best Actor: 2000 Oscars|date= January 4, 2010|via= YouTube|access-date= May 21, 2020|archive-date= November 1, 2017|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171101204644/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCjt7PME5_E|url-status= live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://aaspeechesdb.oscars.org/link/072-1/|title=Kevin Spacey Academy Awards Acceptance Speech|website=Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences|date=May 21, 2020|access-date=May 22, 2020|archive-date=August 2, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200802225535/http://aaspeechesdb.oscars.org/link/072-1/|url-status=live}}</ref> For his role he also received a [[British Academy Film Awards|BAFTA Award]] and [[Screen Actors Guild Awards|Screen Actors Guild Award]] as well as a nomination for a [[Golden Globe Awards|Golden Globe Award]]. That same year, he was honored with a star on the [[Hollywood Walk of Fame]].<ref>{{cite news |first=Taryn|last=Rider|url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hollywood-chamber-commerce-no-plans-remove-walk-fame-stars-amid-sexual-harassment-scandals-173303074.html|title=Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has no plans to remove Walk of Fame stars amid sexual misconduct scandals|publisher=[[Yahoo Finance|Yahoo! Finance]]|location=Sunnyvale, California|date=November 15, 2017|access-date=December 27, 2022|archive-date=December 28, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221228011132/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/hollywood-chamber-commerce-no-plans-remove-walk-fame-stars-amid-sexual-harassment-scandals-173303074.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Also in 1999, Spacey won the [[Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor]] and earned another Tony Award nomination in 1999 for ''[[The Iceman Cometh]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.playbill.com/article/1999-tony-nominee-kevin-spacey-leading-actor-play-the-iceman-cometh-com-82301|title= 1999 Tony Nominee: Kevin Spacey (Leading Actor, Play, The Iceman Cometh)|website= [[Playbill]].com|access-date= May 21, 2020|archive-date= August 18, 2020|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20200818053444/https://www.playbill.com/article/1999-tony-nominee-kevin-spacey-leading-actor-play-the-iceman-cometh-com-82301|url-status= live}}</ref>

=== 2000–2009: Established actor and work at the Old Vic ===
Spacey played a physically and emotionally scarred grade school teacher in ''[[Pay It Forward (film)|Pay It Forward]]'' (2000), a patient in a mental institution who may or may not be an [[Extraterrestrial life|alien]] in ''[[K-PAX (film)|K-Pax]]'' (2001), and singer [[Bobby Darin]] in ''[[Beyond the Sea (2004 film)|Beyond the Sea]]'' (2004). The latter was a lifelong dream project for Spacey, who took on co-writing, directing, co-producing and starring duties in the biography/musical about Darin's life, career and relationship with actress [[Sandra Dee]]. Facing little interest for backing in the U.S., Spacey went to the United Kingdom and Germany for funding. Almost all of the film was made in Berlin.<ref name="parade" /> Spacey provided his own vocals on the film's soundtrack and appeared in several tribute concerts around the time of its release. Spacey received mostly positive reviews for his singing, as well as a [[Golden Globe]] nomination for his performance. However, reviewers debated the age disparity between Spacey and Darin, noting that Spacey was too old to convincingly portray Darin, particularly during the early stages of the singer's life depicted in the film.<ref>{{cite news |first=Jay |last=Boyar |url=https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2004/12/29/a-bit-of-darin-lives-in-spacey/ |title=A bit of Darin lives in Spacey |newspaper=[[Orlando Sentinel]]   |date=December 29, 2004 |access-date=November 15, 2015 |archive-date=November 17, 2015 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117032207/http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2004-12-29/news/0412280338_1_kevin-spacey-bobby-darin-pop-singer }}</ref>
[[File:Bobby Darin 1972.JPG|thumb|left|160px|Spacey portrayed singer [[Bobby Darrin]] in ''[[Beyond the Sea (2004 film)|Beyond the Sea]]'' (2004) which he also directed]]
In February 2003, Spacey announced that he was to become the artistic director of the [[Old Vic]], one of London's oldest theatres.<ref name="bbc20030203">{{cite news |title=Spacey 'to run Old Vic' |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/2723437.stm |work=[[BBC News]] |date=February 3, 2003 |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-date=March 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210320102706/https://server-uk.imrworldwide.com/a1.js |url-status=live }}</ref> Appearing at a press conference with [[Judi Dench]] and [[Elton John]], Spacey promised both to appear on stage and to bring in big-name talent.<ref name="bbc20030206">{{cite news |title=Spacey becomes London theatre boss |work=[[BBC News]] |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/2727845.stm |date=February 6, 2003 |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-date=June 4, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070604155242/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/arts/2727845.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> He undertook to remain in the post for a full ten years. The Old Vic Theatre Company staged shows eight months out of the year. Spacey's first season started in September 2004, opening with the British premiere of the play ''[[Cloaca (film)|Cloaca]]'' by [[Maria Goos]], directed by Spacey, which opened to mixed reviews.<ref name="firstseason">{{cite web|title=A Brief History of the Old Vic |work=Old Vic Theatre |url=http://www.oldvictheatre.com/history.php |year=2008 |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080516082930/http://www.oldvictheatre.com/history.php |archive-date=May 16, 2008}}</ref> In the 2005 season, Spacey made his UK Shakespearean debut, to good notices, in the [[Richard II of England|title role]] of ''[[Richard II (play)|Richard II]]'', directed by [[Trevor Nunn]].<ref name="firstseason" />

In 2006, Spacey played [[Lex Luthor]] in the [[Bryan Singer]] [[superhero]] film ''[[Superman Returns]]'' starring [[Brandon Routh]]. He was to return for its 2009 sequel, but the series was instead rebooted with the 2013 film ''[[Man of Steel (film)|Man of Steel]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Ali|last=Plumb|url=https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/kevin-spacey-jesse-eisenberg-playing-lex-luthor/|title=Kevin Spacey on Jesse Eisenberg Playing Lex Luthor|magazine=[[Empire (magazine)|Empire]] |date=February 27, 2014|access-date=November 15, 2015|archive-date=August 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200803060556/https://www.empireonline.com/movies/news/kevin-spacey-jesse-eisenberg-playing-lex-luthor/|url-status=live}}</ref> Spacey also appeared in ''[[Edison (film)|Edison]]'', which received a [[direct-to-video]] release in 2006.<ref>{{cite news |author=XSSIV |title='Edison' cast includes Freeman, Spacey and LL Cool J |url=http://www.movieweb.com/news/edison-cast-includes-freeman-spacey-and-ll-cool-j |work=MovieWeb |date=December 3, 2003 |access-date=September 22, 2013 |archive-date=September 30, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130930170402/http://www.movieweb.com/news/edison-cast-includes-freeman-spacey-and-ll-cool-j }}</ref> The film was released in theaters in [[Netherlands]] on March 12, 2006. In mid-2006, Spacey was working at the Old Vic; at that point in his career, he said, he was "trying to do things now that are much bigger and outside [myself]".<ref name="nyt-oldvic">{{cite news |first=Sarah |last=Lyall |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2006/05/29/theater/29spac.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090318221449/http://www.nytimes.com/2006/05/29/theater/29spac.html |archive-date=March 18, 2009 |url-status=live| title=Beyond a Sea of Criticism, All's Well for Kevin Spacey at Old Vic |work=[[The New York Times]] |url-access=subscription |date=May 29, 2006 |access-date=June 2, 2008}}</ref> Spacey performed in productions of ''National Anthems'' by Dennis McIntyre, and ''[[The Philadelphia Story (play)|The Philadelphia Story]]'' by [[Philip Barry]], in which he played C.K. Dexter Haven, the [[Cary Grant]] role in the [[The Philadelphia Story (film)|film version]]. Critics applauded Spacey for taking on the management of a theatre, but noted that while his acting was impressive, his skills and judgment as a producer/manager had yet to develop.<ref name="richardiii">{{cite web |first=Gazelle |last=Emami |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/10/kevin-spacey-richard-iii_n_1196493.html |title=Kevin Spacey As Richard III: BAM Production Of Sam Mendes Play Begins Its Run |work=[[HuffPost]] |date=October 1, 2012 |access-date=November 15, 2015 |archive-date=November 17, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117020348/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/10/kevin-spacey-richard-iii_n_1196493.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In the 2006 season, Spacey suffered a major setback with a production of [[Arthur Miller]]'s ''[[Resurrection Blues]]'', directed by [[Robert Altman]].<ref name="bbc20060413">{{cite news |title=Spacey defends Old Vic management |work=[[BBC News]] |date=April 13, 2006 |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/4905638.stm |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-date=December 10, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081210003757/http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/4905638.stm |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite an all-star cast (including [[Matthew Modine]] and future ''House of Cards'' co-star [[Neve Campbell]]) and the pedigree of Miller's script, Spacey's decision to lure Altman to the stage proved disastrous: after a fraught rehearsal period, the play opened to a critical panning, and closed after only a few weeks.<ref name="nyt-oldvic" /> Later in the year, Spacey starred in [[Eugene O'Neill]]'s ''[[A Moon for the Misbegotten]]'', along with [[Colm Meaney]] and [[Eve Best]]. The play received excellent reviews for Spacey and Best, and was transferred to Broadway in 2007. For the spring part of the 2007–08 season, [[Jeff Goldblum]] and [[Laura Michelle Kelly]] joined Spacey as the three characters in [[David Mamet]]'s 1988 play ''[[Speed-the-Plow]]''.<ref name="stage20071210">{{cite news |first=Alistair |last=Page |url=http://www.thestage.co.uk/news/newsstory.php/19128/goldblum-to-join-spacey-in-the-old-vics |title=Goldblum to join Spacey in the Old Vic's Speed-the-Plow |work=[[The Stage]] |date=December 10, 2007 |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-date=March 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120306200511/http://www.thestage.co.uk/news/newsstory.php/19128/goldblum-to-join-spacey-in-the-old-vics |url-status=dead }}</ref>
[[File:Waterloo the old vic 1.jpg|thumb|[[The Old Vic]] theatre in [[Waterloo, London]]]]

Spacey's [[Capitol Records|Capitol]]/[[EMI]] album ''[[Forever Cool]]'' (2007) features two [[duet]]s with Spacey and an earlier recording of [[Dean Martin]]: "[[Ain't That a Kick in the Head]]" and "[[King of the Road (song)|King of the Road]]". In December 2007, Spacey co-hosted the [[Nobel Peace Prize Concert]] along with [[Uma Thurman]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nobelpeaceprizeconcert.org/concert/past-concerts/?concert-year=2007 |title=Nobel Peace Prize Concert 2007 |website=Nobel Peace Prize Concert |date=December 11, 2007 |access-date=July 30, 2013 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131117163313/http://www.nobelpeaceprizeconcert.org/concert/past-concerts/?concert-year=2007 | archive-date=November 17, 2013}}</ref> In 2008 Spacey starred as [[Ron Klain]] in the [[HBO]] original political drama film ''[[Recount (film)|Recount]]'' revolving around [[2000 United States presidential election recount in Florida|Florida's vote recount]] during the [[2000 United States presidential election]] between [[George W. Bush]] and [[Al Gore]]. The film was written by [[Danny Strong]] and directed by [[Jay Roach]] and starred [[Bob Balaban]], [[Laura Dern]], [[John Hurt]], [[Denis Leary]], and [[Tom Wilkinson]]. The television film won three [[Primetime Emmy Award]]s, including [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Television Movie|Outstanding Television Movie]]. For his performance in the film, Spacey was nominated for the [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie]] and the [[Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Miniseries or Television Film|Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film]]. That same year Spacey produced the TV movie ''[[Bernard and Doris]]'', an HBO semi-fictionalized account of the relationship that developed between socialite [[Beneficiary|heiress]] and philanthropist [[Doris Duke]] and her self-destructive Irish butler [[Bernard Lafferty]] later in her life. The film starred [[Ralph Fiennes]] and [[Susan Sarandon]] and was directed by [[Bob Balaban]]. The film premiered at the [[Hamptons International Film Festival]] to critical acclaim, and Spacey was nominated for the [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Television Movie]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Kevin Spacey |url=https://www.emmys.com/bios/kevin-spacey |access-date=June 11, 2024 |website=Television Academy |archive-date=June 15, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615200604/https://www.emmys.com/bios/kevin-spacey |url-status=live }}</ref> Also in 2008, Spacey played a [[Massachusetts Institute of Technology]] (MIT) lecturer in the film ''[[21 (2008 film)|21]]''. The film is based on [[Ben Mezrich]]'s best seller ''[[Bringing Down the House: The Inside Story of Six MIT Students Who Took Vegas for Millions]]'', a story of student MIT [[card-counting|card-counters]] who used [[mathematical probability]] to aid them in card games such as [[blackjack]]. In 2009, he directed the premiere of [[Joe Sutton]]'s ''[[Complicit (play)|Complicit]]'', with [[Richard Dreyfuss]], [[David Suchet]] and [[Elizabeth McGovern]].<ref name="richardiii" /> Later that year, Trevor Nunn directed Spacey in a revival of ''[[Inherit the Wind (play)|Inherit the Wind]]''. Spacey played defense lawyer Henry Drummond, a role that was made famous by [[Spencer Tracy]] in the [[Inherit the Wind (1960 film)|1960 film of the same name]].<ref name="richardiii" /> [[Sam Mendes]] directed Spacey in Shakespeare's ''[[Richard III (play)|Richard III]]''; Spacey played the [[Richard III of England|title role]]. The show began in June 2011, commencing a worldwide tour culminating in New York in early 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://oldvictheatre.com/whatson.php?id=75 |title=The Old Vic  |date=July 22, 2002 |access-date=October 24, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111017163921/http://www.oldvictheatre.com/whatson.php?id=75 |archive-date=October 17, 2011}}</ref> In March 2014, it was announced that Spacey would star in a one-man play at the Old Vic to celebrate his ten years as artistic director. He took on the part of [[Clarence Darrow]] in the play.<ref>{{cite news | first = Nancy | last = Groves | url = https://www.theguardian.com/culture/2014/mar/18/kevin-spacey-star-one-man-play-old-vic | title = Kevin Spacey to star in one-man play at Old Vic | newspaper = [[The Guardian]] | date = March 18, 2014 | access-date = March 18, 2014 | archive-date = March 19, 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140319084000/http://www.theguardian.com/culture/2014/mar/18/kevin-spacey-star-one-man-play-old-vic | url-status = live }}</ref>

=== 2010–2017: ''House of Cards'' and other roles === 
[[File:Kevin Spacey (Berlin Film Festival 2011).jpg|thumb|upright|left|Spacey at the [[Berlin International Film Festival|Berlin Film Festival]] 2011]]
In early 2010, Spacey went to China to star in writer-director [[Dayyan Eng]]'s [[black comedy]] film ''[[Inseparable (film)|Inseparable]]'', becoming the first Hollywood actor to star in a fully Chinese-funded film.<ref>{{cite web |first=S.T. |last=Vanairsdale |url=http://movieline.com/2012/05/03/kevin-spaceys-chinese-buddy-superhero-movie-inseparable-looks-interesting/ |title=Kevin Spacey's Chinese Buddy-Superhero Movie Inseparable Looks... Interesting |website=[[Movieline]] |date=May 5, 2012 |access-date=November 15, 2015 |archive-date=December 15, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215123717/http://movieline.com/2012/05/03/kevin-spaceys-chinese-buddy-superhero-movie-inseparable-looks-interesting/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2011, Spacey starred in [[J.C. Chandor]]'s financial thriller ''[[Margin Call]]'' alongside [[Paul Bettany]], [[Jeremy Irons]], [[Zachary Quinto]], [[Demi Moore]], and [[Stanley Tucci]]. The story at large takes place over a 24-hour period at a large [[Wall Street]] [[investment bank]] during the initial stages of the [[2008 financial crisis]]. The film, which focuses on the actions taken by a group of employees during the subsequent financial collapse, made its debut at the [[Sundance Film Festival]] to critical acclaim. Spacey received the [[Independent Spirit Robert Altman Award]] along with the cast. That same year, Spacey co-starred in the black comedy film ''[[Horrible Bosses]]'', which grossed over {{USD|209.6 million|long=no}} at the box office.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=horriblebosses.htm |title=Horrible Bosses |website=[[Box Office Mojo]] |access-date=January 17, 2016 |archive-date=October 22, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181022153531/https://www.boxofficemojo.com/movies/?id=horriblebosses.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> 

On March 18, 2011, it was announced that Spacey was cast as [[Frank Underwood (House of Cards)|Frank Underwood]] in the [[Netflix]] series ''[[House of Cards (American TV series)|House of Cards]]'', adapted from a 1990 [[BBC]] [[House of Cards (British TV series)|political drama of the same name]].<ref>{{cite news|first=Nellie|last=Andreeva|url=https://deadline.com/2011/03/kevin-spacey-set-to-star-in-david-finchers-drama-series-for-mrc-house-of-cards-110883/|title=Kevin Spacey Set To Star in David Fincher's Drama Series For MRC 'House of Cards'|work=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|location=Los Angeles, California|date=March 3, 2011|access-date=March 3, 2011|archive-date=March 4, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110304181224/http://www.deadline.com/2011/03/kevin-spacey-set-to-star-in-david-finchers-drama-series-for-mrc-house-of-cards/|url-status=live}}</ref> He was nominated for the [[Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series]] at the [[65th Primetime Emmy Awards]] in 2013, becoming the first lead actor to be Primetime Emmy-nominated from a [[web television]] series.<ref name="NDWi2PEN">{{cite web|first=Brian|last=Stelter|url=http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/07/18/watching-for-the-2013-primetime-emmy-nominations/|title=Netflix Does Well in 2013 Primetime Emmy Nominations |work=[[The New York Times]] |url-access=subscription |date=July 18, 2013|access-date=July 18, 2013|archive-date=July 19, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130719190706/http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/07/18/watching-for-the-2013-primetime-emmy-nominations/|url-status=live}}</ref> Spacey went on to win the [[Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Drama|Golden Globe award for Best Actor in a Television Series Drama]] at the [[72nd Golden Globe Awards]] and [[Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series|Screen Actors Guild nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Drama Series]] at the [[21st Screen Actors Guild Awards]] for his [[House of Cards (season 2)|season 2]] performance.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/movies/2015/01/11/golden-globes-winners-list/21586087/ |title=List: Who won Golden Globe awards |newspaper=[[USA Today]] |date=January 12, 2015 |access-date=January 12, 2015 |archive-date=January 12, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150112040210/http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/movies/2015/01/11/golden-globes-winners-list/21586087/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Sarene|last=Leeds|url=https://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2015/01/26/sag-awards-the-complete-2015-winners-list/|title=SAG Awards: The Complete 2015 Winners List|newspaper=[[The Wall Street Journal]]|date=January 26, 2015|access-date=January 27, 2015|archive-date=August 15, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200815210859/https://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2015/01/26/sag-awards-the-complete-2015-winners-list/|url-status=live}}</ref> He was fired from the series after the fifth season following multiple allegations of sexual misconduct.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mitovich |first=Matt Webb |date=November 4, 2017 |title=House of Cards: Kevin Spacey Fired |url=https://tvline.com/casting-news/house-of-cards-kevin-spacey-fired-883197/ |access-date=July 13, 2023 |website=TVLine |archive-date=July 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230713232335/https://tvline.com/casting-news/house-of-cards-kevin-spacey-fired-883197/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
[[File:Governor Tours the House of Cards Set (8769358329).jpg|thumb|right|Spacey showing [[Governor of Maryland|Maryland governor]] [[Martin O'Malley]] around the set of ''[[House of Cards (American TV series)|House of Cards]]'', May 2013]]

In 2013 he executive-produced the biographical survival thriller film ''[[Captain Phillips (film)|Captain Phillips]]'', which was nominated for the [[Academy Award for Best Picture]].<ref name=oscarnom>{{cite web |url=https://www.oscars.org/awards/academyawards/86/nominees.html |title=Nominees for the 86th Academy Awards |publisher=Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences |access-date=January 16, 2016 |archive-date=May 31, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140531064911/http://www.oscars.org/awards/academyawards/86/nominees.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=oscarwin>{{cite magazine|first=Kimberly|last=Nordyke|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/oscar-winners-2014-full-list-results-86th-academy-awards-kodak-theater-684748|title=Oscars 2014 Winners: The Complete List|magazine=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|date=March 2, 2014|access-date=January 16, 2016|archive-date=July 23, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140723201401/http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/oscar-winners-2014-full-list-results-86th-academy-awards-kodak-theater-684748|url-status=live}}</ref> Spacey portrayed the [[antagonist]] Jonathan Irons in the 2014 video game ''[[Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare]]'' through [[motion capture]].<ref name="CoDAW">{{cite web |last=Dredge |first=Stuart |date=November 3, 2014 |title=Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare means 'brand new audience' for Kevin Spacey |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/nov/03/kevin-spacey-call-of-duty-advanced-warfare |access-date=December 15, 2014 |work=[[The Guardian]] |location=London, England |archive-date=December 15, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141215132547/http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2014/nov/03/kevin-spacey-call-of-duty-advanced-warfare |url-status=live }}</ref> He starred as President [[Richard Nixon]] in the comedy-drama ''[[Elvis & Nixon]]'' (2016), which is based on the meeting that took place between Nixon and singer [[Elvis Presley]] ([[Michael Shannon]]) in December 1970 wherein Presley requested that Nixon swear him in as an undercover agent in the [[Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs]].<ref>{{cite web|first=Jen|last=Yamato|title='Elvis & Nixon' Sets Kevin Spacey & Michael Shannon in Tale of Historic White House Hangout – AFM|url=https://deadline.com/2014/11/elvis-and-nixon-movie-kevin-spacey-michael-shannon-cast-1201274891/|work=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=November 5, 2014|access-date=June 20, 2016|archive-date=March 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303125227/https://deadline.com/2014/11/elvis-and-nixon-movie-kevin-spacey-michael-shannon-cast-1201274891/|url-status=live}}</ref> He next starred in the comedy film ''[[Nine Lives (2016 film)|Nine Lives]]'', as a man trapped in the body of a cat.<ref>{{cite web|first1=Eric|last1=Hayden|first2=Tatiana|last2=Siegel|title=Kevin Spacey to Star in Comedy 'Nine Lives' From 'Men in Black' Director|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/kevin-spacey-star-comedy-nine-767937|work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|date=January 28, 2015|access-date=June 20, 2016|archive-date=January 31, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150131020028/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/kevin-spacey-star-comedy-nine-767937|url-status=live}}</ref> The film was released on August 5, 2016.<ref>{{cite web|first=Erik|last=Pederson|title='Nine Lives' Trailer: Here Kevin Spacey Spacey Spacey...|url=https://deadline.com/2016/04/nine-lives-trailer-kevin-spacey-christopher-jennifer-garner-1201738336/|work=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=April 15, 2016|access-date=June 20, 2016|archive-date=June 19, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160619233812/http://deadline.com/2016/04/nine-lives-trailer-kevin-spacey-christopher-jennifer-garner-1201738336/|url-status=live}}</ref> Spacey is well known in Hollywood for his [[impressionist (entertainment)|impressions]]. When he appeared on ''[[Inside the Actors Studio]]'', he imitated (at host [[James Lipton]]'s request) Jack Lemmon, [[James Stewart]], [[Johnny Carson]], [[Katharine Hepburn]], [[Clint Eastwood]], [[John Gielgud]], [[Marlon Brando]], [[Christopher Walken]], and [[Al Pacino]].<ref name=tca/> On ''[[The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon]]'', Spacey admitted to using his vocal skills as a young actor in New York City to pretend to be Carson's son to obtain free theatre tickets and to enter [[Studio 54]].<ref name="fallon">{{cite episode |series=[[The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon]] |credits=Fallon, Jimmy (host) |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PEz8PQ5YPE | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140506053536/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PEz8PQ5YPE&gl=US&hl=en| archive-date=May 6, 2014 |network=NBC |title=Kevin Spacey Does a Great Johnny Carson Impression |location=New York City |air-date=May 2, 2014 |season=1}}</ref> 

In January 2016 it was announced that [[Relativity Media]], which was just emerging from [[Chapter 11 bankruptcy]],<ref>{{cite news|first1=Dominic|last1=Patten|first2=Mike Jr.|last2=Fleming|title=Ryan Kavanaugh's Relativity Media finally files Chapter 11 bankruptcy|url=https://deadline.com/2015/07/relativity-bankruptcy-ryan-kavanaugh-chapter-11-filing-1201485656/|website=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=July 30, 2015|access-date=November 4, 2017|archive-date=October 19, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019200303/https://deadline.com/2015/07/relativity-bankruptcy-ryan-kavanaugh-chapter-11-filing-1201485656/|url-status=live}}</ref> had acquired Trigger Street Productions and that Spacey would become chairman of [[Relativity Media#Relativity Studios|Relativity Studios]], while Dana Brunetti would become the studio's president.<ref>{{cite web|first=Mike Jr.|last=Fleming|title=Relativity Media acquires Trigger Street; sets Kevin Spacey and Dana Brunetti to run studio as it emerges From Chapter 11|url=https://deadline.com/2016/01/relativity-media-kevin-spacey-dana-brunetti-trigger-street-1201677412/|website=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=January 6, 2016|access-date=November 4, 2017|archive-date=October 21, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171021123445/http://deadline.com/2016/01/relativity-media-kevin-spacey-dana-brunetti-trigger-street-1201677412/|url-status=live}}</ref> Spacey called the move "an incredible opportunity to make great entertainment" and said he considered it the "next evolution in my career".<ref>{{cite magazine | first = James | last = Rainey | title = Kevin Spacey, Dana Brunetti set to run Relativity for Ryan Kavanaugh | url = https://variety.com/2016/biz/news/kevin-spacey-dana-brunetti-relativity-studios-1201673516/ | magazine = [[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] | date = January 6, 2016 | access-date = November 4, 2017 | archive-date = November 4, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171104064954/http://variety.com/2016/biz/news/kevin-spacey-dana-brunetti-relativity-studios-1201673516/ | url-status = live }}</ref> However, when the paperwork for the studio was filed for the court, it emerged that Spacey had opted out of assuming the chairmanship of the studios,<ref>{{cite news | last1 = Lang | first1 = Brent | last2 = Littleton | first2 = Cynthia | title = Relativity Relaunch: Kevin Spacey nixes chairman role, Dana Brunetti sets deal | url = https://variety.com/2016/film/news/kevin-spacey-relativity-2-1201728899/ | magazine = [[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] | date = March 13, 2016 | access-date = November 4, 2017 | archive-date = November 6, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171106181337/http://variety.com/2016/film/news/kevin-spacey-relativity-2-1201728899/ | url-status = live }}</ref> and by the end of 2016 Brunetti had also left Relativity, while both remained executive producers on ''House of Cards'' and ''[[Manhunt: Unabomber|Manifesto]]''.<ref>{{cite news|first=Anthony|last=D'Alessandro|title=Dana Brunetti leaving Relativity; will continue producing|url=https://deadline.com/2016/12/dana-brunetti-relativity-media-departure-ryan-kavanaugh-1201874353/|website=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=December 20, 2016|access-date=November 4, 2017|archive-date=November 7, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107010545/http://deadline.com/2016/12/dana-brunetti-relativity-media-departure-ryan-kavanaugh-1201874353/|url-status=live}}</ref>

On June 16, 2016, Spacey was awarded an [[wikt:Special:Search/honorary|honorary]] [[knighthood]] for his services to theatre, arts education, and international culture in the [[2015 Queen's Birthday Honours]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/434651/Birthday_Honours_2015_FCO_press_release.pdf|title=FCO Press Release: Honours for the best of Britain overseas|website=Gov.uk|date=June 12, 2015|access-date=January 13, 2023|archive-date=April 6, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406063910/https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/434651/Birthday_Honours_2015_FCO_press_release.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> The honour, [[Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire]], was given at [[Clarence House]] by then-[[Prince Charles]]. As a non-[[Commonwealth Realm]] citizen, the award is honorary and he is not entitled to the [[honorific]] "Sir".<ref>{{cite news|first=Maria|last=Puente|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/movies/2015/06/12/kevin-spacey-gets-honorary-knighthood-from-queen/71150620/|title=Kevin Spacey gets honorary knighthood|newspaper=[[USA Today]]|date=June 12, 2015|access-date=October 10, 2018|archive-date=August 2, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200802212100/https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/movies/2015/06/12/kevin-spacey-gets-honorary-knighthood-from-queen/71150620/|url-status=live}}</ref> Spacey had previously been awarded the lesser rank of honorary Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to drama in 2010.<ref>{{cite news |first=JJ|last=Nattrass|title=Kevin Spacey: The UK's 'adopted son' |website=[[BBC News]]|location=London, England|date=June 12, 2015}}</ref> Spacey was a patron of the [[Shakespeare Schools Festival]], a charity that enables school children across the UK to perform Shakespeare in professional theatres. He also sits on the board of directors of the [[Motion Picture and Television Fund]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mptvfund.org/cm/about-us/board-of-directors/foundation-board-of-directors.html |title=Foundation Board of Directors |website=Motion Picture & Television Fund |access-date=May 4, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090416222504/http://www.mptvfund.org/cm/about-us/board-of-directors/foundation-board-of-directors.html |archive-date=April 16, 2009}}</ref>

=== 2017–present: Career controversy and comeback attempts ===
In March 2017, it was announced that Spacey would portray [[J. Paul Getty]] in [[Ridley Scott]]'s ''[[All the Money in the World]]''.<ref>{{cite news|first=Mike Jr.|last=Fleming|title=Michelle Williams, Kevin Spacey, Mark Wahlberg Circling Ridley Scott's Getty Kidnap Film|url=https://deadline.com/2017/03/michelle-williams-kevin-spacey-mark-wahlberg-ridley-scott-getty-kidnap-film-imperative-entertainment-sony-pictures-1202056971/|work=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=March 31, 2017|access-date=June 14, 2017|archive-date=June 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180626030427/https://deadline.com/2017/03/michelle-williams-kevin-spacey-mark-wahlberg-ridley-scott-getty-kidnap-film-imperative-entertainment-sony-pictures-1202056971/|url-status=live}}</ref> He shot his role in the film in ten days over the summer of 2017. But because of the [[sexual assault]] allegations against Spacey, it was announced on November 8, 2017, that all of his footage would be excised,<ref>One shot with Spacey was retained because of time and money constraints, given the film's close deadline. It features the character of J. Paul Getty departing from a train in a wide shot and Spacey's face is not visible.</ref> and that [[Christopher Plummer]] would replace him in [[reshoots]].<ref name="DeadlineA_081117">{{cite news|first=Mike Jr.|last=Fleming|url=https://deadline.com/2017/11/kevin-spacey-dropped-all-in-the-money-in-the-world-christopher-plummer-ridley-scott-j-paul-getty-1202204437/|title=Shocker: Kevin Spacey dropped from 'All The Money In The World;' J Paul Getty role recast with Christopher Plummer|work=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=November 8, 2017|access-date=November 8, 2017|archive-date=November 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109020204/http://deadline.com/2017/11/kevin-spacey-dropped-all-in-the-money-in-the-world-christopher-plummer-ridley-scott-j-paul-getty-1202204437/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=Peter|last=Howell|url=https://www.thestar.com/entertainment/movies/2017/11/09/movie-magician-christopher-plummer-seeks-to-perform-a-cinematic-miracle-by-replacing-kevin-spacey-howell.html|title=If any actor can quickly replace Kevin Spacey, it's Christopher Plummer|newspaper=[[Toronto Star]]|date=November 9, 2017|access-date=November 15, 2017|archive-date=November 10, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171110154843/https://www.thestar.com/entertainment/movies/2017/11/09/movie-magician-christopher-plummer-seeks-to-perform-a-cinematic-miracle-by-replacing-kevin-spacey-howell.html}}</ref> Despite the very tight schedule, [[TriStar Pictures]] completed the new version of the film in time for a December 25 release.<ref>{{cite web|first=Mike Jr.|last=Fleming|title=Shocker: Kevin Spacey Dropped From 'All The Money In The World;' J Paul Getty Role Recast With Christopher Plummer|url=https://deadline.com/2017/11/kevin-spacey-dropped-all-in-the-money-in-the-world-christopher-plummer-ridley-scott-j-paul-getty-1202204437/|work=[[Deadline Hollywood]]|date=November 9, 2017|access-date=November 9, 2017|archive-date=November 9, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109020204/http://deadline.com/2017/11/kevin-spacey-dropped-all-in-the-money-in-the-world-christopher-plummer-ridley-scott-j-paul-getty-1202204437/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first=Andrea|last=Mandell|url=https://www.cnbc.com/2017/11/09/kevin-spacey-to-be-cut-out-of-all-the-money-in-the-world.html|title=Kevin Spacey to be cut out of 'All the Money in the World' following assault allegations|publisher=[[CNBC]]|date=November 9, 2017|access-date=November 15, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171110225439/https://www.cnbc.com/2017/11/09/kevin-spacey-to-be-cut-out-of-all-the-money-in-the-world.html|archive-date=November 10, 2017}}</ref> Spacey appeared in the film ''[[Billionaire Boys Club (2018 film)|Billionaire Boys Club]]'', which had a [[limited release]] on August 17, 2018.<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Dominic|last=Patten|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/kevin-spacey-movie-billionaire-boys-club-hit-theaters-1121334|title=Kevin Spacey Film 'Billionaire Boys Club' to Hit Select Theaters in August|magazine=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|date=September 4, 2018|access-date=September 12, 2018|archive-date=April 16, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210416220928/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/kevin-spacey-movie-billionaire-boys-club-hit-theaters-1121334|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Matt|last=Donelly|url=https://www.thewrap.com/kevin-spaceys-billionaire-boys-club-to-hit-theaters-in-august/|title=Return From Exile: Kevin Spacey's 'Billionaire Boys Club' to Hit Theaters in August (Exclusive)|website=[[TheWrap]]|date=June 18, 2018|access-date=June 18, 2018|archive-date=August 22, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210822054006/https://www.thewrap.com/kevin-spaceys-billionaire-boys-club-to-hit-theaters-in-august/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |last=McClintock |first=Pamela |date=August 18, 2018 |title=Box Office: Kevin Spacey's 'Billionaire Boys Club' Earns Abysmal $126 on Opening Day |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-kevin-spaceys-billionaire-boys-club-earns-126-friday-1135816 |magazine=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=May 21, 2020 |archive-date=December 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201209034125/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-kevin-spaceys-billionaire-boys-club-earns-126-friday-1135816 |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Vertical Entertainment]] stated that it would take no action to remove Spacey from the film, as it had been completed in late 2016, before the allegations made in October 2017.<ref>{{cite web|first=Zack|last=Sharf|url=https://www.indiewire.com/features/general/kevin-spacey-billionaire-boys-club-distributor-explains-opening-sexual-harassment-1201976248/|title=Kevin Spacey Returns: 'Billionaire Boys Club' Distributor Explains Why the Disgraced Actor's New Film Is Opening This Summer|website=[[Indiewire]]|date=June 19, 2018|access-date=November 12, 2023|archive-date=October 25, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231025090320/https://www.indiewire.com/features/general/kevin-spacey-billionaire-boys-club-distributor-explains-opening-sexual-harassment-1201976248/|url-status=live}}</ref> They released a statement which read in part, "We don't condone sexual harassment on any level and we fully support victims of it. At the same time, this is neither an easy nor insensitive decision to release this film in theatres, but we believe in giving the cast, as well as hundreds of crew members who worked hard on the film, the chance to see their final product reach audiences."<ref>{{cite news|first=Jacob|last=Stolworthy|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/kevin-spacey-new-film-billionaire-boys-club-sexual-misconduct-allegations-release-date-trailer-a8407801.html|title=Kevin Spacey returning to cinemas for first time since sexual assault allegations|newspaper=[[The Independent]]|date=20 June 2018|access-date=25 July 2018|archive-date=January 2, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102043554/https://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/films/news/kevin-spacey-new-film-billionaire-boys-club-sexual-misconduct-allegations-release-date-trailer-a8407801.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Following the allegations leveled against him, Spacey maintained a lower profile and his career stalled.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Yasharoff |first=Hannah |title=Kevin Spacey lands first acting role since 2017 sexual assault accusations, reports say |newspaper=[[USA Today]] |date=May 25, 2021 |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2021/05/25/kevin-spacey-lands-first-role-since-2017-sexual-assault-claims/7426071002/ |access-date=November 2, 2022 |archive-date=November 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102202858/https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/movies/2021/05/25/kevin-spacey-lands-first-role-since-2017-sexual-assault-claims/7426071002/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Siegel |first=Tatiana |date=April 22, 2021 |title=Kevin Spacey's Strange New World: From Triple Threat to Legal Challenges on Three Fronts |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/hollywood-pariah-kevin-spacey-faces-mounting-legal-woes-4169709/ |magazine=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |access-date=November 2, 2022 |archive-date=November 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102202858/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/hollywood-pariah-kevin-spacey-faces-mounting-legal-woes-4169709/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 
[[File:Kevin Spacey-9165.jpg|thumb|right|Spacey at the [[Venice International Film Festival]] in 2025.]]
In May 2021, it was announced that he had been cast in a supporting role as a police detective in the crime drama film ''[[The Man Who Drew God]]'', directed by and starring [[Franco Nero]], which is about a blind artist who is wrongly accused of sexually abusing a child.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Escobedo |first1=Monica |last2=Deliso |first2=Meredith |date=May 23, 2021 |title=Kevin Spacey books 1st film role following sexual assault allegations |website=[[ABC News (United States)|ABC News]] |url=https://abcnews.go.com/US/kevin-spacey-1st-film-role-sexual-assault-allegations/story?id=77850104 |access-date=May 23, 2021 |archive-date=July 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712143924/https://abcnews.go.com/US/kevin-spacey-1st-film-role-sexual-assault-allegations/story?id=77850104 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":2">{{cite news |last=Shoard |first=Catherine |date=May 24, 2021 |title=Kevin Spacey set for return to movies with paedophilia drama |newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2021/may/24/kevin-spacey-return-italian-paedophilia-drama |access-date=May 25, 2021 |archive-date=May 24, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210524235313/https://www.theguardian.com/film/2021/may/24/kevin-spacey-return-italian-paedophilia-drama |url-status=live }}</ref> The film reunited Spacey with [[Faye Dunaway]], whom he directed in ''Albino Alligator''. In August 2021, Spacey was reportedly filming in California for a small production, ''[[Peter Five Eight]]'',<ref name=":3">{{cite magazine |last=Hudson |first=David |date=August 30, 2021 |title=Kevin Spacey pictured on set of new movie project being shot in the US |url=https://www.queerty.com/kevin-spacey-pictured-set-new-movie-project-shot-us-20210830 |magazine=[[Queerty]] |access-date=September 4, 2021 |archive-date=September 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210904051841/https://www.queerty.com/kevin-spacey-pictured-set-new-movie-project-shot-us-20210830 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=":4">{{cite news |date=August 29, 2021 |title=Kevin Spacey dreht wieder in den USA |language=de |trans-title=Kevin Spacey is filming again in the USA |website=[[n-tv]] |url=https://www.n-tv.de/leute/Kevin-Spacey-dreht-wieder-in-den-USA-article22772005.html |access-date=September 4, 2021 |archive-date=September 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210904051844/https://www.n-tv.de/leute/Kevin-Spacey-dreht-wieder-in-den-USA-article22772005.html |url-status=live }}</ref> in which he plays a "charismatic" serial killer.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Keller |first=Erin |date=May 19, 2022 |title=Kevin Spacey plays a serial killer in first film since sex assault allegations |work=[[New York Post]] |url=https://nypost.com/2022/05/19/kevin-spacey-is-a-serial-killer-in-first-film-since-sex-assault-claims/ |access-date=November 2, 2022 |archive-date=November 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102202903/https://nypost.com/2022/05/19/kevin-spacey-is-a-serial-killer-in-first-film-since-sex-assault-claims/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

On November 3, 2022, ''Variety'' reported that Spacey was set to speak at the [[National Museum of Cinema]] and was going to receive a lifetime achievement award on January 16, 2023, despite the allegations against him.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Vivarelli |first=Nick |date=November 3, 2022 |title=Kevin Spacey to Make First Speaking Appearance in Five Years: Actor Will Give Masterclass And Receive Prize at Italy's National Museum of Cinema |url=https://variety.com/2022/film/global/kevin-spacey-first-public-appearance-masterclass-italys-national-museum-of-cinema-turin-1235422070/ |magazine=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |access-date=November 4, 2022 |archive-date=November 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221103185309/https://variety.com/2022/film/global/kevin-spacey-first-public-appearance-masterclass-italys-national-museum-of-cinema-turin-1235422070/ |url-status=live }}</ref> On November 28, 2022, after winning a sexual battery lawsuit against him filed by [[Anthony Rapp]], Spacey was cast in the British indie thriller ''[[Control (2023 film)|Control]]''. Its director, Gene Fallaize, dismissed concerns about working with Spacey.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Yossman |first=K. J. |date=November 28, 2022 |title=Kevin Spacey Books First Movie After Winning $40 Million Sexual Battery Lawsuit |url=https://variety.com/2022/film/global/kevin-spacey-movie-sexual-assault-charges-trial-1235443157/ |access-date=December 1, 2022 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |archive-date=December 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221201091402/https://variety.com/2022/film/global/kevin-spacey-movie-sexual-assault-charges-trial-1235443157/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2022, Spacey was cast as the late Croatian leader [[Franjo Tuđman]] in the political drama ''[[Once Upon a Time in Croatia]]'', directed by [[Jakov Sedlar]].<ref>{{Cite news |last=Higgins |first=Andrew |date=January 2, 2023 |title=To Buff a Balkan Leader's Image, a Filmmaker Calls In Kevin Spacey |work=[[The New York Times]] |url-access=subscription |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/02/world/europe/kevin-spacey-franjo-tudjman-croatia.html |access-date=January 4, 2023 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103235605/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/02/world/europe/kevin-spacey-franjo-tudjman-croatia.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2024, notable industry members such as actors [[Sharon Stone]], [[Liam Neeson]], [[F. Murray Abraham]], and [[Stephen Fry]], film director [[Paul Schrader]] and theatre director [[Trevor Nunn]] vocally supported Spacey's attempts to return to acting.<ref>{{cite web |first=Zack |last=Sharf |url=https://variety.com/2024/film/news/sharon-stone-liam-neeson-support-kevin-spacey-return-acting-1236006820/ |title=Sharon Stone and Liam Neeson Call for Kevin Spacey's Return to Acting: 'He Is a Genius' and 'Our Industry Needs Him and Misses Him Greatly' |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |date=May 16, 2024 |access-date= May 16, 2024 |archive-date= May 16, 2024 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20240516213416/https://variety.com/2024/film/news/sharon-stone-liam-neeson-support-kevin-spacey-return-acting-1236006820/ |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cnd6d7y11nwo|title= Stars back Kevin Spacey acting return|date= May 16, 2024|website=[[BBC]]|access-date= May 16, 2024|archive-date= May 16, 2024|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20240516111327/https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cnd6d7y11nwo|url-status= live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Samantha|last=Bergeson|url= https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/paul-schrader-kevin-spacey-frank-sinatra-biopic-1235002482/|title= Paul Schrader Wants Kevin Spacey to Play Frank Sinatra in Potential Biopic: 'Cancel Culture Won't Let Him Go'|website= [[IndieWire]]|date= May 9, 2024|access-date= May 17, 2024|archive-date= May 16, 2024|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20240516160626/https://www.indiewire.com/news/general-news/paul-schrader-kevin-spacey-frank-sinatra-biopic-1235002482/|url-status= live}}</ref>

The film ''[[Peter Five Eight]]'', released in 2024, marks Spacey's return to a major role after his legal troubles.<ref>{{cite web|first=Lily|last=Ford|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-features/kevin-spacey-peter-five-eight-michael-zaiko-hall-interview-1235920663/|title=Kevin Spacey’s First Lead Role Since U.K. Trial: Director Defends "Controversial" Casting|website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|date=June 14, 2024}}.</ref> In the same year, he starred in ''The Contract'', an Italian production, with [[Eric Roberts]].<ref>{{cite web|first=Nick|last=Vivarelli|url=https://variety.com/2024/film/global/kevin-spacey-devil-italian-thriller-the-contract-1235930332/|title=Kevin Spacey Plays 'The Devil' in Trailer for Italian Indie Thriller 'The Contract,' Set for Cairo Film Festival Premiere|website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|date=November 12, 2024}}</ref>

In November 2025, Spacey performed a cabaret show titled ''Songs & Stories'' at the Parklane Resort in [[Limassol]], [[Cyprus]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Conway |first=Juliet |title=Kevin Spacey to perform at Cyprus resort in bid to revive career after sexual misconduct allegations |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/showbiz/kevin-spacey-cyprus-resort-b1241443.html |work=[[Evening Standard]] |date=August 4, 2025 |access-date=November 21, 2025}}</ref> In an interview with ''[[The Daily Telegraph]]'' regarding the performance, Spacey stated that he was "living in hotels" and performing where he could find work due to his financial situation following his legal battles.<ref>{{cite news |first=Bonnie |last=McLaren |title=Kevin Spacey says he has 'no home' seven years after sexual assault claims |url=https://www.standard.co.uk/showbiz/kevin-spacey-homeless-b1258912.html |work=[[Evening Standard]] |date=November 20, 2025 |access-date=November 21, 2025}}</ref> In December 2025, Spacey starred in an Italian comedy television series titled ''Minimarket'' on [[RaiPlay]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Vivarelli |first=Nick |date=December 18, 2025 |title=Kevin Spacey Returns to TV for First Time Since ‘House of Cards’ With Italian Comedy Series ‘Minimarket’ |url=https://variety.com/2025/tv/global/kevin-spacey-first-series-house-of-cards-comedy-minimarket-1236611642/ |access-date=December 21, 2025 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |language=en-US}}</ref>

== Acting credits and accolades ==
[[File:Spacey_Star.jpg|thumb|Spacey's star on the [[Hollywood Walk of Fame]], laid in 1999]]
{{main|Kevin Spacey on screen and stage|List of awards and nominations received by Kevin Spacey}}

Spacey has won two [[Academy Awards]], a [[Tony Award]], a [[Golden Globe Award]], four [[Screen Actors Guild Awards]] and a [[British Academy Film Award]]. He was nominated for a [[Grammy Award]] and for 12 [[Primetime Emmy Award]]s. Spacey received a star on the [[Hollywood Walk of Fame]] in 1999 and was named an honorary Commander and Knight Commander of the [[Order of the British Empire]] in 2010 and 2015, respectively.<ref>{{cite web|title=Hollywood Walk of Fame: Kevin Spacey|url=http://www.walkoffame.com/kevin-spacey|access-date=May 6, 2017|archive-date=August 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170804020200/http://www.walkoffame.com/kevin-spacey|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="CBE">{{cite news|title=Kevin Spacey honored in UK for services to drama|url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/03/AR2010110303539.html|access-date=May 6, 2017|newspaper=[[The Washington Post]]|date=November 3, 2010|archive-date=August 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170804022804/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/11/03/AR2010110303539.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="KBE">{{cite news|title=Birthday Honours 2015: Van Morrison and Kevin Spacey head list|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-33109755|access-date=May 6, 2017|work=BBC News|date=June 13, 2015|archive-date=August 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170804020047/http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-33109755|url-status=live}}</ref></onlyinclude>

==Personal life==

===Sexuality and relationships===
Spacey briefly dated American actress [[April Winchell]] after she graduated high school in the early 1980s.<ref>{{cite news| first=April| last=Winchell| title=Sexual secrets revealed| url=http://www.aprilwinchell.com/2003/07/11/kabc-friday-july-11-2003/#more%20%20-925| access-date=June 16, 2008| archive-date=February 20, 2011| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110220001251/http://www.aprilwinchell.com/2003/07/11/kabc-friday-july-11-2003#more%20%20-925}}</ref><ref>{{cite news| first=April| last=Winchell| title=memoir contest| url=http://www.aprilwinchell.com/2006/07/28/kabc-friday-july-28-2006/#more%20-898| access-date=June 16, 2008| archive-date=December 27, 2010| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101227102421/http://www.aprilwinchell.com/2006/07/28/kabc-friday-july-28-2006/#more%20-898}}</ref> An article in ''[[The Sunday Times Magazine]]'' in 1999 stated that Spacey's "love affair with acting, and the absence of a visible partner in the life of an attractive 40-year-old, has resulted in ''[[Esquire (magazine)|Esquire]]'' magazine asserting two years ago that he must be gay".<ref name="Personal">{{cite news|first=Lesley |last=White |title=Spacey's Odyssey |url=https://drivingmrspacey.com/sunday-times-mag-1999/ |work=[[The Sunday Times Magazine]] |location=London, England|date=December 19, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107030557/https://drivingmrspacey.com/sunday-times-mag-1999/ |archive-date=November 7, 2017 }}</ref> Spacey responded to the rumors by telling ''[[Playboy]]'' and other interviewers that he was not gay,<ref>{{cite news |date=October 1999 |url=http://www.kevinspacey.de/Presse/Playboy_englisch/playboy_englisch.html |title=Playboy interview | url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090122053756/http://www.kevinspacey.de/Presse/Playboy_englisch/playboy_englisch.html | via = kevinspacey.de | archive-date=January 22, 2009}}</ref> and by telling Lesley White of ''[[The Sunday Times]]'':<blockquote>I chose for a long time not to answer these questions because of the manner in which they were asked, and because I was never talking to someone I trusted, so why should I? Recently I chose to participate because it's a little hard on the people I love.<ref name="Personal" /></blockquote>

In 1999, reports suggested that Spacey was dating a [[script supervisor]] named Dianne Dreyer, with their relationship possibly dating back to 1992.<ref name="Gotham">{{cite news |first=Sara |last=Bliss |title=The Drama King |url=http://kspacey.egloos.com/25064 |work=[[Gotham Magazine]]|location=New York City| date=May 2007 |access-date=November 17, 2008 }}{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |first=Josh |last=Wolk |title=The Parties |url=https://ew.com/article/2000/04/07/post-oscar-parties/ |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |location=New York City |date=April 7, 2000 |access-date=January 31, 2009 |archive-date=April 14, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414024022/http://www.ew.com/article/2000/04/07/post-oscar-parties |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |title=The days before the Oscars |url=https://ew.com/article/2000/04/07/days-oscars/ |magazine=[[Entertainment Weekly]] |location=New York City |date=April 7, 2000 |access-date=January 31, 2009 |archive-date=November 22, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081122113546/http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,313173,00.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2000, Spacey brought Dreyer to the [[Academy Awards]];<ref name="Gotham" /> during the acceptance speech for his Best Actor award, Spacey said, "Dianne, thank you for teaching me about caring about the right things, and I love you."<ref name="academy">{{cite AV media | people= [[Gwyneth Paltrow]] (presenter), Kevin Spacey (recipient) | date= January 4, 2010 | access-date= October 31, 2017 | title= Kevin Spacey Wins Best Actor: 2000 Oscars | medium= Video | publisher= [[Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences]] |via=YouTube | url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCjt7PME5_E | archive-date= November 1, 2017 | archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20171101204644/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WCjt7PME5_E | url-status= live }}</ref> In 2007, ''[[Gotham (magazine)|Gotham]]'' magazine quoted Spacey saying:<blockquote>I've never believed in pimping my personal life out for publicity. Although I might be interested in doing it, I will never do it. People can gossip all they want; they can speculate all they want. I just happen to believe that there's a separation between the public life and the private life. Everybody has the right to a private life no matter what their professions are.<ref name="Personal"/></blockquote>

In 2017, Spacey [[came out]] as gay in a statement denying a sexual misconduct allegation.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Yossman |first=K. J. |date=July 13, 2023 |title=Kevin Spacey Defends Coming Out as Gay After Being Accused of Sexual Misconduct: 'I Was Under a Lot of Pressure' |url=https://variety.com/2023/biz/global/kevin-spacey-defends-coming-out-gay-sexual-misconduct-1235669267/ |access-date=July 10, 2024 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Dellatto |first=Marisa |title=Kevin Spacey Says He Waited Until 58 To Come Out As Gay Because His Dad 'Was A Neo-Nazi' |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/marisadellatto/2022/10/17/kevin-spacey-says-he-waited-until-58-to-come-out-as-gay-because-his-dad-was-a-neo-nazi/ |access-date=July 10, 2024 |website=[[Forbes]] |archive-date=July 10, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240710232409/https://www.forbes.com/sites/marisadellatto/2022/10/17/kevin-spacey-says-he-waited-until-58-to-come-out-as-gay-because-his-dad-was-a-neo-nazi/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=November 6, 2017 |title=Kevin Spacey timeline: How the story unfolded |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-41884878 |website=BBC |access-date=July 10, 2024 |language=en-GB}}</ref> 

===Political views and activism===
[[File:Kevin Spacey - Clinton Global Citizen 2010.jpg|thumb|left|Spacey speaking during the 2010 [[Clinton Foundation#Clinton Global Citizen Awards|Clinton Global Citizen Awards]]]]
Spacey is a [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democrat]] and has been described as [[Left-wing politics|left-leaning]], with his political views mirroring those of his fictional character in ''House of Cards.''<ref>{{cite news |last=Rubenoff |first=Sarah |url=https://www.romper.com/p/is-kevin-spacey-a-democrat-republican-the-house-of-cards-star-is-super-passionate-about-politics-6470 |title=Is Kevin Spacey A Democrat Or Republican? The 'House of Cards' Star Is Super Passionate About Politics |work=[[Romper (magazine)|Romper]] |date=February 29, 2016 |access-date=October 30, 2017 |archive-date=November 7, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107011419/https://www.romper.com/p/is-kevin-spacey-a-democrat-republican-the-house-of-cards-star-is-super-passionate-about-politics-6470 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Amy|last=Chozick|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2015/02/22/arts/television/kevin-spacey-star-of-house-of-cards-and-a-bromance-with-bill-clinton.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220103/https://www.nytimes.com/2015/02/22/arts/television/kevin-spacey-star-of-house-of-cards-and-a-bromance-with-bill-clinton.html |archive-date=January 3, 2022 |url-status=live|title=Kevin Spacey, Star of 'House of Cards' and a Bromance With Bill Clinton |work=[[The New York Times]] |url-access=subscription |date=February 20, 2015|access-date=October 30, 2017}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Spacey worked on [[Jimmy Carter]]'s [[Jimmy Carter 1976 presidential campaign|1976 presidential campaign]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mcdevitt |first=Caitlin |title=Kevin Spacey on Obama, Congress |url=https://www.politico.com/blogs/click/2013/07/kevin-spacey-on-obama-congress-169387 |access-date=November 12, 2022 |website=[[Politico]] |date=July 29, 2013 |archive-date=November 12, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221112233730/https://www.politico.com/blogs/click/2013/07/kevin-spacey-on-obama-congress-169387 |url-status=live }}</ref>

He is a friend of former President [[Bill Clinton]], having met Clinton before his presidency began. Spacey once described Clinton as "one of the shining lights" in the political process.<ref name="abc" /> He additionally made a [[cameo appearance]] in the short film ''President Clinton: Final Days'', a light-hearted [[political satire]] produced by the [[Clinton Administration]] for the 2000 [[White House Correspondents Dinner]].<ref name="newyorktimes">{{cite news |title=President Clinton: Final Days (2000) |url=https://movies.nytimes.com/movie/241447/President-Clinton-Final-Days/overview | access-date=June 2, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071012205227/https://movies.nytimes.com/movie/241447/President-Clinton-Final-Days/overview|department=Movies & TV Dept. |work=[[The New York Times]] |url-access=subscription |first=Richard|last=Gilliam |year=2007 |archive-date=October 12, 2007}}</ref>

Spacey has undertaken activism in the domain of [[HIV/AIDS]]. In 2002, he and fellow actor [[Chris Tucker]] accompanied Bill Clinton on a trip throughout several African countries to promote AIDS awareness on the continent.<ref>{{cite web |date=September 30, 2002 |title=Former President Clinton, Nelson Mandela Discuss AIDS Awareness with Young People in South Africa |url=https://khn.org/morning-breakout/dr00013741/ |access-date=August 19, 2020 |website=Kaiser Health News |archive-date=June 22, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210622095843/https://khn.org/morning-breakout/dr00013741/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The trip gained renewed attention in 2019 amidst the [[Jeffrey Epstein#Legal issues|sex trafficking charges]] against [[Jeffrey Epstein]], whose plane was used.<ref>{{Cite news |last1=Rogers |first1=Taylor Nicole |last2=Snodgrass |first2=Erin |title=Here are all the famous people Jeffrey Epstein was connected to |url=https://www.businessinsider.com/famous-people-jeffery-epstein-money-manager-sexual-trafficking-connected-2019-7 |access-date=November 12, 2022 |work=[[Business Insider]] |archive-date=November 12, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221112002344/https://www.businessinsider.com/famous-people-jeffery-epstein-money-manager-sexual-trafficking-connected-2019-7 |url-status=live }}</ref> Spacey also participated in several fundraisers for HIV/AIDS healthcare, including [[amfAR]] Cinema Against AIDS in 2016<ref>{{cite news |date=May 20, 2016 |title=Kevin Spacey mocks Donald Trump at AIDS fundraiser |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/kevin-spacey-mocks-donald-trump-at-aids-fundraiser/ |access-date=August 19, 2020 |publisher=[[CBS News]] |archive-date=June 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210616120811/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/kevin-spacey-mocks-donald-trump-at-aids-fundraiser/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and the 25th Annual [[Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Award Party]] in 2017.<ref>{{cite web |title=EJAF's 25th Annual Academy Awards Viewing Party: Sunday, February 26, 2017 |url=http://newyork.ejaf.org/ejafs-25th-annual-academy-awards-viewing-party-sunday-february-26-2017/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181129135320/http://newyork.ejaf.org/ejafs-25th-annual-academy-awards-viewing-party-sunday-february-26-2017/ |archive-date=November 29, 2018 |access-date=January 18, 2017 |website=[[Elton John AIDS Foundation]]}}</ref>

Spacey met Venezuelan president [[Hugo Chávez]] in September 2007 but never spoke to the press about their encounter. During the trip, he visited the Venezuelan film studio [[Villa del Cine]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Thomson |first=Katherine |date=September 25, 2007 |title=Kevin Spacey Meets With Hugo Chavez |work=[[HuffPost]] |location=New York City |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2007/09/25/kevin-spacey-meets-with-h_n_65739.html |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130303050814/https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2007/09/25/kevin-spacey-meets-with-h_n_65739.html |archive-date=March 3, 2013}}</ref> In March 2011, following Belarusian president [[Alexander Lukashenko]]'s crackdown on the [[Belarusian democracy movement]], Spacey joined [[Jude Law]] in a street protest in London against Lukashenko's regime.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-europe-12909005/kevin-spacey-and-jude-law-march-against-belarus-regime |title=Kevin Spacey and Jude Law march against Belarus regime |date=March 30, 2011 |work=[[BBC News]] |access-date=October 29, 2017 |archive-date=November 9, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109024735/http://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-europe-12909005/kevin-spacey-and-jude-law-march-against-belarus-regime |url-status=live }}</ref>

In October 2008, Spacey started the Kevin Spacey Foundation in the UK to encourage youth involvement in the arts.<ref>{{cite news|first=Afshan|last=Ahmed|url=https://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/kevin-spacey-foundation-s-way-to-pay-it-forward-1.119181|title=Kevin Spacey Foundation's way to pay it forward|newspaper=The National|location=Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates|date=January 7, 2015|access-date=July 25, 2018|archive-date=July 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180726103722/https://www.thenational.ae/arts-culture/kevin-spacey-foundation-s-way-to-pay-it-forward-1.119181|url-status=live}}</ref> Headquartered in [[England and Wales]], its purpose was to provide grants to individuals and organizations to help young people study the arts, particularly theatre.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://beta.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1126407&subid=0|title=Charity Details: The Kevin Spacey Foundation|website=charitycommission.gov.uk|access-date=July 25, 2018|archive-date=July 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180726103658/http://beta.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1126407&subid=0|url-status=live}}</ref> The charity shut down in February 2018 following sexual misconduct allegations against Spacey.<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Stewart|last=Clarke|url=https://variety.com/2018/film/news/kevin-spacey-foundation-close-down-uk-britain-1202711565/|title=Kevin Spacey Foundation to Shut Down in U.K.|magazine=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]|location=Los Angeles, California|date=February 27, 2018|access-date=July 25, 2018|archive-date=August 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180803234102/https://variety.com/2018/film/news/kevin-spacey-foundation-close-down-uk-britain-1202711565/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In September 2006, Spacey said that he intended to take up [[British citizenship]] when it is offered to him.<ref name="telegraph">{{cite news |last=Hastings |first=Chris |date=September 10, 2006 |title=Spacey sets the stage for nine years at the Old Vic |work=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |location=London |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/1528483/Spacey-sets-the-stage-for-nine-years-at-the-Old-Vic.html |url-status=live |url-access=subscription |access-date=June 2, 2008 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220110/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/1528483/Spacey-sets-the-stage-for-nine-years-at-the-Old-Vic.html |archive-date=January 10, 2022}}{{cbignore}}</ref> When asked about the UK's [[2016 European Union membership referendum]], Spacey replied, "I appreciate you asking me the question, but I am not a British citizen; I am a resident of Great Britain. And I have never in my twelve years ever gotten involved in politics in Great Britain. I think it's inappropriate for me as a, really as a guest, in Great Britain, so I'll leave that to the British people."<ref>{{cite news |agency=[[Press Association]] |date=February 23, 2016 |title=Expect the political unpredictable, says House of Cards' Kevin Spacey |work=[[Irish Independent]] |url=https://www.independent.ie/style/celebrity/celebrity-news/expect-the-political-unpredictable-says-house-of-cards-kevin-spacey-34477004.html |access-date=October 31, 2017 |archive-date=November 7, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107031642/https://www.independent.ie/style/celebrity/celebrity-news/expect-the-political-unpredictable-says-house-of-cards-kevin-spacey-34477004.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

In May 2024, Spacey endorsed [[Robert F. Kennedy Jr.]], who was [[Robert F. Kennedy Jr. 2024 presidential campaign|running as an independent]], in the [[2024 United States presidential election]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dorn |first=Sara |title=Kevin Spacey Endorses RFK Jr. — Ahead Of Documentary Revealing New Allegations Against Spacey |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/saradorn/2024/05/06/kevin-spacey-endorses-rfk-jr---ahead-of-documentary-revealing-new-allegations-against-spacey/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240520002742/https://www.forbes.com/sites/saradorn/2024/05/06/kevin-spacey-endorses-rfk-jr---ahead-of-documentary-revealing-new-allegations-against-spacey/ |date=May 6, 2024 |archive-date=May 20, 2024 |access-date=May 20, 2024 |website=Forbes}}</ref> In December 2024, Spacey visited the [[Israel–Gaza border]] and toured areas impacted by [[Hamas]]' 2023 [[October 7 attacks]]. He was accompanied by pro-Israel journalist [[Douglas Murray (author)|Douglas Murray]]. Spacey was reportedly visiting the daughter of a friend, who is serving in the [[Israel Defence Forces]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-12-02/ty-article/.premium/american-actor-kevin-spacey-photographed-touring-israeli-community-destroyed-on-oct-7/00000193-872f-d95a-afdf-ffef49c20000|title=American Actor Kevin Spacey Photographed Touring Israeli Community Destroyed on Oct. 7|last=Fink|first=Rachel|date=December 2, 2024|work=[[Haaretz]]|archive-date=December 2, 2024|access-date=July 5, 2025|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241202131533/https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2024-12-02/ty-article/.premium/american-actor-kevin-spacey-photographed-touring-israeli-community-destroyed-on-oct-7/00000193-872f-d95a-afdf-ffef49c20000|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/kevin-spacey-touring-israel-gaza_n_674ed692e4b078d11c5ebd97|title=Kevin Spacey Seen Touring Israel-Gaza Border Region With Pro-Israel Journalist|date=Dec 3, 2024|website=[[HuffPost]]|last=Margaritoff|first=Marco}}</ref>

In July 2025, Spacey called for the release of the [[Epstein files]], stating, "For those of us with nothing to fear, the truth can't come soon enough." When some of the files were released in December 2025, Spacey himself was present in some photographs.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2025-12-19 |title=Epstein File Pic Shows Kevin Spacey Chopping It Up With Bill Clinton |url=https://www.tmz.com/2025/12/19/kevin-spacey-epstein-files-bill-clinton/ |access-date=2025-12-21 |website=TMZ |language=en}}</ref>

==Sexual misconduct allegations==
{{Main|Kevin Spacey sexual misconduct allegations}}

In 2017, Spacey faced several allegations of sexual assault and sexual harassment. On October 29, 2017, actor [[Anthony Rapp]] was the first to accuse Spacey of sexual misconduct.<ref>{{cite news |last=Nordyke |first=Kimberly |date=October 29, 2017 |title='Star Trek' star claims Kevin Spacey made a pass at him at age 14; Spacey apologizes, comes out as gay |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-trek-star-claims-kevin-spacey-made-a-pass-at-him-at-age-14-1052828 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413122720/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/star-trek-star-claims-kevin-spacey-made-a-pass-at-him-at-age-14-1052828 |archive-date=April 13, 2018 |access-date=October 30, 2017 |work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref> In the following weeks, other accusers came forward, including actor Roberto Cavazos, filmmaker [[Tony Montana (filmmaker)|Tony Montana]], [[Richard Dreyfuss]]'s son Harry, and at least eight people who worked on ''House of Cards''.<ref>{{Cite news |date=November 1, 2017 |title=Kevin Spacey: More allegations of sexual harassment surface |work=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-41829484 |access-date=July 21, 2024 |archive-date=November 1, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171101212630/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-41829484 |url-status=bot: unknown }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Kevin Spacey Accused of Sexual Misconduct by Eight House of Cards Employees |author-first1=Mike|author-last1=Miller|date=2 November 2017|url=https://people.com/movies/kevin-spacey-accused-of-sexual-misconduct-by-eight-house-of-cards-employees-report/ |access-date=July 21, 2024 |website=Peoplemag |archive-date=July 21, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240721010231/https://people.com/movies/kevin-spacey-accused-of-sexual-misconduct-by-eight-house-of-cards-employees-report/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Dreyfuss |first=Harry |date=November 4, 2017 |title=Actor Harry Dreyfuss: When I Was 18, Kevin Spacey Groped Me |url=https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/harrydreyfuss2/actor-harry-dreyfuss-when-i-was-18-kevin-spacey-groped-me |access-date=July 21, 2024 |website=BuzzFeed News}}</ref>

In the wake of these claims, Netflix cut ties with Spacey, shelving his biopic of [[Gore Vidal]] and removing him from the last season of ''House of Cards''. His completed role as [[J. Paul Getty]] in [[Ridley Scott]]'s film ''[[All the Money in the World]]'' (2017) was reshot with [[Christopher Plummer]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Guardina |first=Carolyn |date=December 18, 2017 |title=Ridley Scott Reveals How Kevin Spacey Was Erased From 'All the Money in the World' |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/behind-screen/ridley-scott-reveals-how-kevin-spacey-was-erased-all-money-world-1068755 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222104851/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/behind-screen/ridley-scott-reveals-how-kevin-spacey-was-erased-all-money-world-1068755 |archive-date=December 22, 2017 |access-date=May 21, 2020 |magazine=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |last=Rubin |first=Rebecca |date=November 13, 2018 |title=Christopher Plummer on Replacing Kevin Spacey in 'All the Money in the World': 'It's a Shame' |url=https://variety.com/2017/film/news/christopher-plummer-kevin-spacey-all-the-money-in-the-world-1202613790/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211220033322/https://variety.com/2017/film/news/christopher-plummer-kevin-spacey-all-the-money-in-the-world-1202613790/ |archive-date=December 20, 2021 |access-date=May 21, 2020 |magazine=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]]}}</ref> Spacey has denied the accusations and was found not liable in a 2022 civil lawsuit filed by Rapp in New York.<ref name="nbcnews.com2">{{cite news |last=Arkin |first=Daniel |date=October 20, 2022 |title=Kevin Spacey found not liable in sex abuse suit brought by Anthony Rapp |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/celebrity/kevin-spacey-trial-verdict-reached-jurors-sex-abuse-suit-brought-antho-rcna53266 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231112054512/https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/celebrity/kevin-spacey-trial-verdict-reached-jurors-sex-abuse-suit-brought-antho-rcna53266 |archive-date=November 12, 2023 |access-date=October 20, 2022 |publisher=[[NBC News]]}}</ref> In a separate criminal case in London, he was acquitted by a jury of [[sexual assault]] charges in 2023.<ref name="cnn.com2">{{cite news |last1=Nicholls |first1=Catherine |last2=Edwards |first2=Christian |date=July 26, 2023 |title=Actor Kevin Spacey cleared of all charges of sexual assault |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/26/uk/kevin-spacey-trial-jury-verdict-intl/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114142247/https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/26/uk/kevin-spacey-trial-jury-verdict-intl/index.html |archive-date=November 14, 2023 |access-date=July 26, 2023 |publisher=[[CNN]]}}</ref>

In 2024, Spacey was forced to foreclose on his house in [[Baltimore, Maryland]] due to income loss following the allegations against him.<ref>[https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/kevin-spacey-owes-millions-legal-fees-home-foreclosure-1236034025/ Kevin Spacey Says He Owes ‘Many Millions’ in Legal Fees and Has No Money as Home Goes Into Foreclosure: ‘I’m Not Sure Where I’m Going to Live Now’]</ref>

==Discography==
===Albums===
* ''[[Beyond the Sea (2004 film)|Beyond the Sea: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack]]'' (2004)

===Singles===
* "[[That Old Black Magic]]" (1997, from the ''[[Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil (film)#Soundtrack|Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil]]'' soundtrack)

===Live performances===
* "[[Mind Games (John Lennon song)|Mind Games]]"&nbsp;– ''[[Come Together: A Night for John Lennon's Words and Music]]''&nbsp;– October 2, 2001, [[Radio City Music Hall]], New York City
* "[[Bridge over Troubled Water (song)|Bridge over Troubled Water]]" (with [[Beverley Knight]]) – [[2015 Laurence Olivier Awards|39th Laurence Olivier Awards]] – April 12, 2015, [[Royal Opera House]], London<ref>{{cite web |title=Kevin Spacey, Angela Lansbury and Sunny Afternoon rock Olivier Awards |url=https://www.whatsonstage.com/news/kevin-spacey-angela-lansbury-and-sunny-afternoon-rock-olivier-awards_37563/ |website=[[WhatsOnStage.com]] |access-date=September 28, 2023 |date=April 13, 2015 |archive-date=September 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230928083143/https://www.whatsonstage.com/news/kevin-spacey-angela-lansbury-and-sunny-afternoon-rock-olivier-awards_37563/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{Sister project links|d=Q25144|n=no|b=no|v=no|voy=no|wikt=no|s=no|m=no|mw=no|species=no}}
* {{Official website}}
* {{IMDb name}}
* {{AFI person|184573-Kevin-Spacey}}
* {{IBDB name}}
* [https://www.spectra.theater/explore/artist/2f7ee574-a8f4-47d9-a94a-e10d55eb37ba Kevin Spacey] at the [[Internet Off-Broadway Database]]

{{Navboxes
|title = [[List of awards and nominations received by Kevin Spacey|Awards for Kevin Spacey]]
|list =
{{Academy Award Best Actor}}
{{Academy Award Best Supporting Actor}}
{{BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role}}
{{Boston Society of Film Critics Award for Best Supporting Actor}}
{{Chicago Film Critics Association Award for Best Supporting Actor}}
{{Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Supporting Actor}}
{{Critics' Circle Theatre Award for Best Actor}}
{{Dallas–Fort Worth Film Critics Association Award for Best Actor}}
{{Dallas–Fort Worth Film Critics Association Award for Best Supporting Actor}}
{{DramaDesk PlayFeaturedActor}}
{{Empire Award for Best Actor}}
{{Evening Standard Theatre Award for Best Actor}}
{{Florida Film Critics Circle Award for Best Actor}}
{{Golden Globe Award Best Actor TV Drama}}
{{GoldenOrangeHonoraryAward}}
{{OlivierAward PlayActor}}
{{London Film Critics Circle Award for Actor of the Year}}
{{MTV Movie Award for Best Villain}}
{{National Board of Review Award for Best Supporting Actor}}
{{New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actor}}
{{Online Film Critics Society Award for Best Actor}}
{{San Diego Film Critics Society Award for Best Actor}}
{{ScreenActorsGuildAward MaleLeadMotionPicture}}
{{ScreenActorsGuildAward MaleTVDrama}}
{{OlivierAward SpecialAward}}
{{TonyAward PlayFeaturedActor}}
{{TFCA Award for Best Actor}}
{{Trewin Award for Best Shakespearean Performance}}
}}

{{Portal bar|Biography|Theatre|Film|United States|Television|LGBTQ}}

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{{DEFAULTSORT:Spacey, Kevin}}
[[Category:Kevin Spacey| ]]
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[[Category:Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture Screen Actors Guild Award winners]]
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[[Category:Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role Screen Actors Guild Award winners]]
[[Category:People acquitted of crimes]]
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