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Kevin Spacey appealed to people who were struggling with shame or depression not to take their own lives. Photo: YouTube

Kevin Spacey returns with annual Christmas video, and a message to people suffering

  • In new video, Kevin Spacey said a lot of people had reached out to him in 2020 to share their struggles
  • Oscar winner released videos around Christmas in 2018 and 2019, in which he spoke cryptically about his situation
Agencies

Kevin Spacey took a more serious approach to his annual Christmas video this year, shying away from the bizarre House of Cards like speeches he has given for several years since being accused of sexual assault.

The disgraced actor, who has been run out of Hollywood since Anthony Rapp accused him of sexual assault in 2017, shared a two-minute video Thursday in which promised hope for anyone considering suicide.

Ex-husband of princess who accused Kevin Spacey of groping him, dies by suicide

“If you’re standing in a place that you can no longer remain standing, if you’re suffering and need help, if you feel guilt or shame, if you’re struggling with your identity, if your back’s up against the wall or if you feel that there is no path for you, whatever your situation, I promise you there is a path and that at this time, during this holiday and beyond, even if you don’t feel it, there are people out there who understand and who can help,” Spacey said.

“You are not alone.”

Spacey, sitting on a bench near the water, said “a lot” of people have reached out to him in 2020 and told him about their struggles.

“My ability to be there for them has really only been possible because of my own difficulties,” the Usual Suspects star said. “And while it has been a privilege to offer support, I have to say, frankly, it’s also been beyond my abilities. It’s bigger than me.”

The video ends with the number for the Suicide Prevention Hotline as the actor promises viewers “it does get better”.

Lawsuit accusing Kevin Spacey of groping dismissed after accuser died

Since Rapp first revealed the alleged assault at the age of 14, dozens of men have come forward with similar accusations against Spacey. The actor, who came out as gay when he denied Rapp’s allegations, has denied any wrongdoing.

Prosecutors in Massachusetts in 2019 dropped criminal charges against Spacey of indecent assault and battery involving an 18-year-old man in a bar in 2016. Spacey had pleaded not guilty.

The star, who won a best actor Academy Award for American Beauty in 2000, released brief videos around Christmas in 2018 and 2019 in which he spoke cryptically about his own situation.

Tribune News Service and Reuters

If you are having suicidal thoughts, or you know someone who is, help is available. For Hong Kong, dial +852 2896 0000 for The Samaritans or +852 2382 0000 for Suicide Prevention Services. In the US, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on +1 800 273 8255. For a list of other nations’ helplines, see this page.

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