Kevin Spacey made a surprise appearance at an Oxford University lecture on Monday night, performing a Shakespeare monologue and receiving a standing ovation. The event, titled 'What Shakespeare Can Teach Us About Cancel Culture,' was held in honour of the late conservative philosopher Roger Scruton.
Douglas Murray, associate editor of The Spectator, invited Spacey on stage to perform a monologue from 'Timon of Athens.' Murray referenced Scruton's brief dismissal from a government commission in 2019 over controversial remarks, saying the play explores 'what happens when a society drops a person for no reason.'
Spacey delivered the performance, moving through the crowd before concluding with the line: 'I am sick of this false world, and will love it not!' He then dramatically exited and re-entered the room to a standing ovation.
The appearance comes months after Spacey was acquitted of sexual assault charges in London in July, following a four-week trial. He had faced allegations from four men between 2004 and 2013. In 2022, he was also found not liable in a separate civil case in New York.
Despite the legal victories, controversy continues to affect Spacey's career. The premiere of his film 'Control' was cancelled by a London cinema over the weekend, though a new venue was secured within 24 hours.
