Guy Pearce Opens Up About Troubling Encounters with Kevin Spacey on “L.A. Confidential”

In a candid and emotional new interview, actor Guy Pearce revealed troubling experiences he had while working with Kevin Spacey on the set of the 1997 film L.A. Confidential. Pearce, who was a young actor at the time, described Spacey as “a handsy guy” who made him feel “uncomfortable” and “targeted” him.

A “Wake-Up Call” Decades Later

Pearce shared that it wasn’t until the #MeToo movement and the subsequent allegations against Spacey that he fully processed the impact of those encounters. He described breaking down and sobbing uncontrollably when he realized the extent of the effect they had on him.

“I Was Scared of Kevin”

Pearce admitted to feeling intimidated by Spacey’s aggressive and charismatic personality, which made it difficult to address the unwanted advances at the time. He also revealed that he felt safer on set when his friend Simon Baker was present, as Spacey’s attention would shift away from him.

Confrontations and a Shift in Perspective

Pearce revealed that he has since had “a couple of confrontations” with Spacey that “got ugly.” He also expressed regret for initially downplaying his experiences in a 2018 interview, but clarified that he didn’t want Spacey to “get away with what he gets away with.” Now, Pearce is committed to being more honest about his experiences and “calling it for what it is.”

Spacey Denies Allegations

Kevin Spacey has consistently denied all allegations of misconduct against him. He was found not liable in a lawsuit filed by Anthony Rapp and was acquitted of sexual assault charges in the U.K. in 2023.

Pearce’s Career and Oscar Nomination

The interview also touched on Pearce’s successful career, from his early days on Australian soaps to his breakout roles in films like The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Memento. Pearce is currently nominated for an Oscar for his performance in The Brutalist, a film that also deals with themes of sexual abuse and power dynamics.

A Conversation About Accountability

Pearce’s candidness about his experiences with Spacey contributes to the ongoing conversation about accountability and the impact of abuse of power in the entertainment industry. His story highlights the importance of speaking out and seeking support, even years after the events have occurred.