Kevin Spacey is offering a limited-edition signet ring to mark America's 250th anniversary, priced at £110 for a standard version or £228 for a personalised one. The ring, made of stainless steel with a gold-tone finish, bears the legend "Per Ardua, Ad Astra" ("Through adversity, to the stars") and a prominent "FU" that stands for Frank Underwood, the character Spacey played on Netflix's House of Cards.
Details of the Ring
According to the product listing on Shopify, the ring is available for purchase until 22 July, with delivery taking up to three months due to made-to-order production and what is described as "Kevin Spacey's active work schedule." The personalised version allows up to 20 characters, though "offensive or inappropriate messages will not be accepted." Buyers are advised to avoid water, moisture, perfumes, lotions, harsh chemicals, and exercising while wearing the ring.
The FU inscription references Frank Underwood, a role that defined Spacey's later career but also became toxic after allegations of sexual misconduct led Netflix to cut ties. An arbitrator ordered Spacey to pay $31 million to Netflix's production company for violating the show's harassment policy, later reduced to $1 million in 2024.
Context and Reaction
Spacey, a two-time Oscar winner for The Usual Suspects and American Beauty, has struggled to revive his career since the allegations. He has posted a series of YouTube videos between 2018 and 2023, often appearing as Frank Underwood, and has now turned to the character to sell merchandise. The ring's motto, also the RAF's motto, seems to reflect Spacey's belief in his own comeback.
The launch coincides with America's 250th anniversary celebrations, which have faced setbacks including acts pulling out of concerts, a controversial Trump arch design, and Disney's Americana apparel made in China. The ring has drawn criticism for its perceived tone-deafness, with some seeing it as a bid to rehabilitate Spacey's image.
Only time will tell if the rings sell out or become a footnote in Spacey's controversial legacy.
