Kevin Spacey Honored With Italian Cinema Award, Thanks Them For Having ‘Balls’ To Invite Him Following Sexual Misconduct Accusations

Actor Kevin Spacey Monday night, his first major public appearance since 2005 after multiple charges. sexual misconduct incidents.

The 63 year-old actor A lifetime achievement award was accepted at an honorary event that was organized by Italy’s National Cinema Museum in the northern Italian city of Turin.

“My heart is very full toward the Museum of Cinema for having had the ‘palle’ (balls) to invite me tonight,” Spacey spoke to the crowd Monday night. “By presenting this award, they are making a strong defense of artistic achievement and for that, they should be applauded.”

Next is the “American Beauty” Actor thanked his friends for supporting him during the scandal. “I just want to say how grateful I am to my friends and my colleagues and my friends’ friends and colleagues who have flown in to be here tonight … I am moved by all of you being here,” Persisting, the actor continued. Deadline.

Spacey received the award and took part in a Q&A-style masterclass that focused on some his most iconic performances, including those in “The Usual Suspects,” “Seven,” “L.A. Confidential,” “American Beauty,” “House Of Cards.”

Spacey allegedly declined interview requests from American media prior to the event but did make statements to the Italian press. Spacey said he hasn’t been “hiding” Since 2017, when he was first accused.

“I live my life every day, I go to restaurants, I meet people, drive, play tennis, I’ve always managed to meet generous, genuine, compassionate people,” Spacey spoke to Ansa, an Italian news outlet. “I haven’t hidden away, I haven’t gone to live in a cave,” He explained.

“What you see in the media is not real life, I’m not coming back to public life because I never left it,” Spacey continued.

Last week, seven additional charges related to sexual assault allegations in England were pleaded guilty by the actor. Deadline. He’s scheduled to appear in court in June 2023 for five previously filed sexual assault charges.

Spacey was held not liable for a $40 million lawsuit in Oct. This was the catalyst for many others to come forward. 

Next up, the actor will be traveling to Rome to see his new movie premiere in its entirety. “The Man Who Drew God.” This will be Spacey’s first feature film credit since the sexual misconduct accusations were filed in 2017.