Kevin Spacey Testifies in ‘House of Cards’ Insurance Dispute, Denies Sexual Misconduct Allegations

In a courtroom showdown on Tuesday, actor Kevin Spacey provided testimony in a dispute between Media Rights Capital (MRC), the production company behind the Netflix series House of Cards, and its insurer. The case centers around a $100 million insurance claim related to the show’s implosion following allegations of sexual misconduct against Spacey.

Spacey Claims Unfair Ouster, Disputes Medical Records

Spacey testified that he was prepared to film the sixth season of House of Cards but was unfairly ousted on false pretenses so MRC could file a substantial insurance claim. He challenged allegations of sexual impropriety and a diagnosis of sexual compulsion that derailed his career nearly a decade ago. He stated he struck a deal with MRC to provide his medical records in exchange for a reduction in the $31 million arbitration award against him, but disputed the accuracy of those records.

“Throughout the medical records, there are comments attributed to me that I never said,” Spacey testified, adding that the records incorrectly stated he had a British accent and a wife.

Conflicting Accounts of Spacey’s Condition

MRC presented testimony from psychiatrist Michael Genovese, who stated Spacey contemplated suicide and was unable to fulfill his duties on the set in 2017 due to an underlying illness. Genovese recounted that Spacey considered hanging himself the night before entering The Meadows, an Arizona rehab facility, and also contemplated stepping in front of a vehicle while at the facility.

Spacey, however, disputed the diagnosis of sexual compulsive disorder. While initially told he didn’t qualify as a sex addict, he later learned he had been diagnosed as sexually compulsive. He expressed skepticism about the diagnosis, stating, “I can’t professionally dispute that, but I can personally dispute it.” He also claimed the founder of The Meadows asked him to become a spokesperson for sex addiction, suggesting a motive to label him as such.

Netflix’s Initial Support and Subsequent Departure

Spacey testified that Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos initially assured him of the company’s support. “He said that I was family and that we were partners and that none of this would effect [House of Cards] and that they would go on hiatus and nothing would happen until Thanksgiving,” Spacey recounted. “That they loved me and supported me and were supportive of my going away to take care of myself.”

However, Spacey learned over Thanksgiving that Netflix had severed ties with him and shelved his starring vehicle, Gore, despite Sarandos’ earlier assurances.

Allegations Against Co-Stars

During the hearing, Spacey also referenced complaints against his House of Cards co-stars, Robin Wright and Michael Kelly. He stated there was an incident involving Kelly and a crew member, stating, “It became something that people talked about.” The complaint against Wright was not specified, but Spacey was questioned about sexual jokes preceding the inquiry about her.

Ongoing Legal Battle

The trial, which began earlier this month, is expected to last several more weeks. MRC is seeking upwards of $100 million in damages. The case hinges on whether Spacey was removed from the production due to an underlying illness or the fallout from the allegations of sexual assault.