Anthony Rapp has responded to the verdict in his case against Kevin Spacey on Thursday, October 20, 2022, which concluded that the Star Trek: Discovery actor hadn’t proved his claims. The former Broadway star took to Twitter to say that he was “deeply grateful for the opportunity” to have his case heard.
After a partial dismissal several days ago, on Thursday, October 20, a New York jury decided in favor of Kevin Spacey, finding that the American Beauty actor did not sexually abuse Rapp, who was 14 at the time, while both of them where actors on Broadway. The civil court verdict was handed down after jurors at the federal court in New York spent less than an hour deciding that Rapp hadn’t proven his allegations against Spacey.
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In response to the jurors’ decision, the Rent actor took to Twitter to make a statement, saying, “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have my case heard before a jury, and I think the members of the jury for their service.”
Rapp continues, “Bringing this lawsuit was always about shining a light, as part of the larger movement to stand up against all forms of sexual violence. I pledge to keep on advocating for efforts to ensure that we can live and work in a world that is free from sexual violence of any kind. I sincerely hope that survivors continue to tell their stories and fight for accountability.”
Fans Send Anthony Rapp Support After Kevin Spacey Verdict
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According to AP News, during the trial, Rapp testified that “Spacey had invited him to his apartment for a party, then approached him in a bedroom after the other guests left. He said the actor, then 26, picked him up and briefly laid on top of him on a bed.” The actor then testified that he “wriggled away and fled as an inebriated Spacey asked if he was sure he wanted to leave.”
In response to the case’s verdict in favor of Spacey, Rapp’s fans and co-stars took to Twitter to share their support. For example, Star Trek: Prodigy voice actor Bonnie Gordon responded to the post saying, “Your bravery will inspire so many to come forward with their own stories. Thank you for being such a voice of good and strength in this world.”
Forbes reporter and epic Trekkie, Dawn Ennis also shared her support, saying, “As a fellow victim of teenage sexual abuse by an older man, back when I was 13, I’m so grateful that you stood up, and did the right thing. I’m sad and angry that his lawyers put you through so much pain, all over again. I believe you, and hope you are surrounded by love.”