Kevin Spacey’s Response To Sexual Misconduct Allegations Draws Criticism

The week in Hollywood starts with yet another major player in the industry accused of sexual harassment and misconduct.

Over the weekend, Anthony Rapp, who currently stars on “Star Trek: Discovery,” alleged that Kevin Spacey was sexually inappropriate with him, when the actor was just 14 years old. The incident took place in 1986, when both Rapp and Spacey were in different, but very successful Broadway shows. Here’s an excerpt of what transpired, according to Rapp, from Buzzfeed‘s report:

In an interview with BuzzFeed News, Rapp is publicly alleging for the first time that in 1986, Spacey befriended Rapp while they both performed on Broadway shows, invited Rapp over to his apartment for a party, and, at the end of the night, picked Rapp up, placed him on his bed, and climbed on top of him, making a sexual advance. According to public records, Spacey was 26. Rapp was 14.

***

“He was trying to seduce me,” Rapp said. “I don’t know if I would have used that language. But I was aware that he was trying to get with me sexually.”

Not long after the story was published, Spacey responded to the allegations on Twitter, with both an apology, and a statement confirming his sexuality, which he has long refused to address publicly.

https://twitter.com/KevinSpacey/status/924848412842971136

Drawing together his behavior with coming out has been criticized by many, with some seeing Spacey trying to conflate the two.

https://twitter.com/fakedansavage/status/924862060562857984

https://twitter.com/billyeichner/status/924859399654473729

https://twitter.com/rosemcgowan/status/924860283952046080

https://twitter.com/MarkHarrisNYC/status/924860163672231936

There are more allegations against Spacey floating out there, and two years ago, Defamer collected various, anonymous accounts about the actor’s behavior. More recently, allegations have been brought forth by journalist Heather Unruh, and actor/producer Mark Ebenhoch. Spacey has yet to respond.

https://twitter.com/HeatherUnruh/status/918909971001217025

https://twitter.com/MarkEbenhoch/status/924844271118770176

Meanwhile, former “House Of Cards” showrunner Beau Willimon issued the following statement (via Variety):

“Anthony Rapp’s story is deeply troubling. During the time I worked with Kevin Spacey on ‘House of Cards,’ I neither witnessed nor was aware of any inappropriate behavior on set or off. That said, I take reports of such behavior seriously and this is no exception. I feel for Mr. Rapp and I support his courage.”