Kevin Spacey
Actor
About Kevin Spacey
Kevin Spacey is an American actor and producer who rose to prominence in the 1990s with acclaimed performances in films like 'The Usual Suspects' and 'American Beauty.' Born in 1959, he began his career on stage before transitioning to film and television, studying at Juilliard School under legendary acting teacher John Houseman. Spacey's breakthrough came with his role as Verbal Kint in 'The Usual Suspects' (1995), which earned him his first Academy Award. He followed this success with an Oscar-winning performance in 'American Beauty' (1999) and became known for his intense, psychologically complex portrayals. In the 2000s, he starred in various films including 'The Final Days' (2000), a television drama about the Nixon administration. Spacey also found success on television with the series 'House of Cards,' though his career faced significant challenges following allegations of misconduct in 2017. His contributions to both stage and screen have left a complex legacy in contemporary American cinema.
The Craft
On Screen
Known for his intense, method-like approach to characters, Spacey specializes in playing complex, often morally ambiguous figures. His performances are marked by subtle facial expressions, precise vocal control, and the ability to convey deep psychological layers beneath seemingly ordinary exteriors.
Milestones
- Broadway debut in 'Lost in Yonkers' (1986)
- Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for 'The Usual Suspects' (1995)
- Academy Award for Best Actor for 'American Beauty' (1999)
- Artistic Director of The Old Vic Theatre (2003-2015)
- Star of 'House of Cards' (2013-2017)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (1995)
- Academy Award for Best Actor (1999)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actor (1999)
- BAFTA Award for Best Actor (1999)
- Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Actor (1999)
- Tony Award for Featured Actor in a Play (1991)
Nominated
- Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor (1996)
- Golden Globe nominations for 'The Usual Suspects' (1996)
- Emmy nominations for 'House of Cards' (2013-2017)
- BAFTA nominations for multiple performances
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1999)
- Honorary CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) (2016)
- Kennedy Center Honors (pending)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Kevin Spacey's performances in the 1990s helped redefine the American anti-hero in cinema, particularly through his roles in 'The Usual Suspects' and 'American Beauty.' His portrayal of complex, morally ambiguous characters influenced a generation of actors and contributed to the darker, more psychologically nuanced tone of late 20th-century American cinema. His work on stage and screen bridged classical theater training with contemporary film acting, demonstrating the versatility of serious dramatic training in modern media.
Lasting Legacy
Spacey's legacy remains complex due to his significant artistic achievements overshadowed by serious misconduct allegations. His Oscar-winning performances and contributions to theater, particularly as artistic director of London's Old Vic, represent substantial artistic accomplishments. However, the 2017 allegations have complicated his place in film history, raising important questions about separating art from artist in contemporary culture.
Who They Inspired
Spacey influenced many actors with his intense preparation methods and ability to disappear into roles. His success in both theater and film inspired many classically trained actors to pursue careers across multiple media. His work in psychological thrillers helped popularize the genre in mainstream cinema during the 1990s and 2000s.
Off Screen
Kevin Spacey has maintained a relatively private personal life throughout his career. He has never been married and has no children. In 2017, he faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, which significantly impacted his career and public standing. These allegations led to his removal from 'House of Cards' and other projects, effectively pausing his mainstream career.
Education
Juilliard School (Group 12, 1979-1981), Northfield Mount Hermon School, Los Angeles Valley College
Did You Know?
- Changed his professional name to Kevin Spacey, dropping 'Fowler' early in his career
- Was roommates with fellow actor Val Kilmer at Juilliard
- Performed as a stand-up comedian early in his career
- Is a skilled impressionist, often doing impressions of famous actors
- Has directed music videos for Bob Dylan and other artists
- Was considered for the role of The Joker in 'The Dark Knight' before Heath Ledger was cast
- Is an avid tennis fan and frequently attends Wimbledon
- Has performed for Queen Elizabeth II at Royal Command Performances
- Was the first actor to win Oscars for both Best Supporting Actor and Best Actor within four years since Dustin Hoffman
- Has been involved in various charitable organizations, particularly those supporting the arts
In Their Own Words
The key to acting is honesty. Once you can fake that, you've got it made.
I don't live a very public life. I like to keep my private life private.
I'm a jobbing actor. I'm not a movie star. I'm a jobbing actor who happens to have been in some very successful movies.
I think we all have a lot of darkness in our bellies. As an actor, the trick is to find the lightness in that darkness.
The less I'm recognized, the better I can do my work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Kevin Spacey?
Kevin Spacey is an American actor and producer known for his intense performances in films like 'The Usual Suspects' and 'American Beauty.' He won two Academy Awards in the 1990s and later starred in the TV series 'House of Cards.' His career was significantly impacted by misconduct allegations in 2017.
What films is Kevin Spacey best known for?
Kevin Spacey is best known for 'The Usual Suspects' (1995), 'American Beauty' (1999), 'Se7en' (1995), 'L.A. Confidential' (1997), and his starring role in the TV series 'House of Cards' (2013-2017). He also appeared in 'The Final Days' (2000) among many other films.
When was Kevin Spacey born and when did he die?
Kevin Spacey was born on July 26, 1959, in South Orange, New Jersey. He is still alive as of 2024, though his career has been largely dormant since 2017 due to various controversies.
What awards did Kevin Spacey win?
Kevin Spacey won two Academy Awards: Best Supporting Actor for 'The Usual Suspects' (1995) and Best Actor for 'American Beauty' (1999). He also won a Tony Award for 'Lost in Yonkers' (1991), multiple Golden Globes, BAFTAs, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.
What was Kevin Spacey's acting style?
Spacey's acting style is characterized by intense psychological depth, subtle facial expressions, and precise vocal control. He specializes in playing complex, often morally ambiguous characters with multiple layers beneath seemingly ordinary exteriors. His approach combines classical theater training with contemporary film techniques.
Did Kevin Spacey work in theater?
Yes, Kevin Spacey has extensive theater experience, including a Tony Award for 'Lost in Yonkers' (1991). He served as Artistic Director of London's Old Vic Theatre from 2003 to 2015, where he both acted and directed numerous productions.
What happened to Kevin Spacey's career after 2017?
After 2017, Kevin Spacey's career was effectively ended by multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. He was removed from 'House of Cards,' his scenes in 'All the Money in the World' were reshot, and he has not appeared in major Hollywood productions since, though he has occasionally worked on independent international projects.
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Films
1 film
