Theatre has 20 claims against Spacey

The Old Vic theatre says it has received 20 personal testimonies of alleged inappropriate behaviour by Kevin Spacey, who was its artistic director between 2004 and 2015.

Those affected said they “felt unable to raise concerns”, and he “operated without sufficient accountability”.

The acclaimed London theatre said it “truly apologises” for not creating an environment or culture where people felt able to speak freely.

It will “commit to a new way forward”.

The Old Vic’s announcement follows recent allegations of sexual harassment and predatory behaviour made against the double Oscar winner and former House of Cards actor while at the theatre.
Spacey has not responded to them.

The theatre’s investigation found that “his stardom and status at The Old Vic may have prevented people, and in particular junior staff or young actors, from feeling that they could speak up or raise a hand for help”.

The investigation is continuing so more people can come forward.

Three people told the Old Vic they had contacted the police.

Spacey’s behaviour is alleged to have ranged from making people feel uncomfortable to sexually inappropriate behaviour. No one alleged rape.

There are 20 individual allegations and 16 are former staff, all of whom are men.

Lewis Silkin, the external law firm engaged by the theatre to conduct the investigation, said there was not widespread knowledge of the allegations.

Spacey was invited to participate in the investigation but the Old Vic said he did not respond.

The BBC has contacted his legal representatives for comment.

Current artistic director Matthew Warchus said he had “genuine and deep sympathy for all those who have come forward and said they were hurt in some way by my predecessor’s actions”.

He added: “Everyone is entitled to work in an environment free from harassment and intimidation. The Old Vic is now actively engaged in the process of healing and the process of prevention. (Tapentadol) ”