On Sunday night, the world was stunned by accuations that screen icon Kevin Spacey had made sexual advances toward actor Anthony Rapp, who was just 14 at the time of the alleged incident.
Spacey issued a public apology in which he also came out as gay, a move that has only exacerbated the scandal.
Many feel the Oscar winner callously attempted to manipulate the conversation and re-focus the media"s attention on his sexual orientation.
Here are some of the most incendiary celebrity reactions to both the allegations against Spacey and the actor"s unexpected response:
1. Spacey Responds
Spacey issued a public response to Rapp’s accusation almost immediately. Unfortunately for the House of Cards star, many felt there was a deeply cynical motive behind his statement.
2. Spacey Misses the Point
“This story has encouraged me to address other things about my life,” Spacey wrote in a statement posted to social media. “As those closest to me know, in my life I have had romantic relationships with both men and women. I have loved and had romantic encounters with men throughout my life, and I choose now to live as a gay man.”
3. Anthony Rapp
The most important response, of course, came from Rapp. But the actor certainly wasn’t the only one who had thoughts to express about Spacey.
4. Rose McGowan
“Keep focus on #AnthonyRapp BE THE VICTIM’S VOICE,” wrote Rose McGowan. “Help us level the playing field.”
5. Billy Eichner
Comedian Billy Eichner says Spacey is a real innovator … just not in a good way.
6. Larry Wilmore
Larry Wilmore kept it simple, condemning Spacey’s statement as simply “wrong.”