Kevin Spacey denies sexual assault charges as actor appears for Old Bailey plea hearing

Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey has formally entered not guilty pleas to sexual assault charges dating back 17 years.

The 62-year-old Hollywood star stood in the dock of Court One at the Old Bailey to deny five allegations relating to three men, who are now in their 30s and 40s.

Spacey was listed under his full name of Kevin Spacey Fowler and appeared in person, having been granted unconditional bail.

The alleged offences are said to have taken place in London and Gloucestershire between 2005 and 2013.

At the time, Spacey was artistic director of The Old Vic theatre in London.

Mr Justice Wall set a trial of three to four weeks from June 6 next year.

The senior judge said the case would be transferred to the Old Bailey unless the date could be accommodated at Southwark Crown Court.

A further hearing will take place earlier in 2023 and the judge granted Spacey continued unconditional bail.

Spacey thanked the judge at the conclusion of the 15-minute hearing.

Actor Kevin Spacey leaves the Old Bailey in London.

The star was represented by defence barrister Patrick Gibbs QC, with Christine Agnew QC prosecuting for the Crown.

The historic wood-panelled courtroom was packed with journalists sitting on rows of benches.

Meanwhile, a large crowd of photographers and television crews gathered outside.

Leaving court, Spacey made no comment as he was ushered into a chauffeur-driven car with darkened windows.

The House of Cards star has an address in Waterloo, south London, but also lives in the US, where he has family and a nine-year-old dog.

Last month, at an initial court hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court, Spacey’s lawyer, Patrick Gibbs QC, said his client “strenuously denies any and all criminality in this case”.

Mr Gibbs said Spacey returned to the UK “to establish his innocence” and “proceed with his life”.

The Crown Prosecution Service authorised the charges against Spacey in May, but he could only be formally charged after travelling to the UK last month.

Spacey, a two-time Academy Award winner, is known for starring in American Beauty and The Usual Suspects.

He was artistic director at The Old Vic between 2004 and 2015.