Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey is poised to make a significant return to television screens, securing his first role since his dramatic exit from the Netflix series House of Cards in 2017. The 66-year-old will appear as himself in a new Italian comedy series titled Minimarket.
A New Role as an 'Artistic Conscience'
The ten-part series, produced for Italian broadcaster RAI, centres on shop worker Manlio Viganò, played by Filippo Laganà, who dreams of becoming an actor. In an unusual twist, Spacey will portray Viganò's imaginary friend, serving as his "artistic conscience and unpredictable mentor." According to industry publication Variety, the comedy derives from their dynamic of "bickering, misunderstandings and mutual teasing."
Laganà has actively promoted the project on social media, posting a black-and-white photograph with Spacey captioned, "Thank you, Mr Spacey, it’s been a true honor." He also humorously referenced Spacey's recent comments about his living situation, writing, "He’s not homeless. He’s living in MiniMarket!"
Legal Battles and Financial Strain
Spacey's return follows his acquittal in July 2023 at London's Southwark Crown Court, where he was found not guilty on nine counts of sexual assault. However, the actor's career and finances have been profoundly impacted by the allegations that first emerged in 2017.
In a recent interview, Spacey revealed the "astronomical" legal bills from defending himself in multiple cases have wiped out his savings. He stated he was forced to sell his home and place his belongings in storage, describing himself as effectively homeless, though he later clarified he was not comparing his situation to those facing genuine housing hardship.
The actor now lives a transient lifestyle, staying in hotels and short-term rentals as he travels for work. Despite the 2023 acquittal, the BBC reports that Spacey faces three further civil claims of sexual assault, which are due in court next year. He has denied all allegations of wrongdoing.
A Career in the Balance
Once regarded as one of Hollywood's most powerful and acclaimed actors, Spacey's career imploded after multiple accusations surfaced. He was fired from House of Cards and removed from completed projects. His upcoming role in Minimarket, which will be available on RAI's streaming platform RaiPlay from 26th December, represents a tentative step back into the public eye.
Whether this Italian series marks the beginning of a broader professional rehabilitation for the two-time Academy Award winner remains to be seen. The entertainment industry and audiences alike will be watching closely to see the reception of his first televised performance in over eight years.
