Names/Kevin/Kevin Spacey
EntertainmentAmerican1959 – present

Kevin Spacey

Oscar winner, 'The Usual Suspects', 'American Beauty'

Biography

Kevin Spacey (born July 26, 1959) is an American actor and producer who became one of Hollywood's most celebrated performers through his intense, complex character portrayals. Born Kevin Spacey Fowler in South Orange, New Jersey, he trained at the Juilliard School and began his career in theater before transitioning to film and television. Spacey achieved breakthrough success with his role as Verbal Kint/Keyser Söze in 'The Usual Suspects' (1995), winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his masterful performance. His subsequent role as Lester Burnham in 'American Beauty' (1999) earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor, establishing him as a leading dramatic talent. Spacey's career included diverse roles in films such as 'Se7en' (1995), 'L.A. Confidential' (1997), and 'Superman Returns' (2006). His role as Francis Underwood in the Netflix series 'House of Cards' (2013-2018) became iconic, showcasing his ability to portray morally complex characters. However, Spacey's career trajectory changed dramatically in 2017 when multiple allegations of sexual harassment and assault emerged, leading to his departure from 'House of Cards' and significant professional consequences. These serious allegations have fundamentally altered his legacy and career prospects. His case represents a significant moment in the #MeToo movement and ongoing discussions about accountability in entertainment.

The Name Kevin

Kevin Spacey's former prominence in entertainment and his complex legacy reflect how the name Kevin has been associated with prestigious acting achievement, though his subsequent controversies have significantly altered that association.

Quick Facts
Category

Entertainment

Nationality

American

Born

1959

Thinking about the name

Kevin

Irish origin

Derived from the Irish Gaelic Caoimhín, meaning 'handsome' or 'kind,' Kevin became a beloved name through Saint Kevin of Glendalough, a 6th-century Irish abbot. The name rose to prominence globally in the 20th century and has remained consistently popular, ranking in the top 20 names for decades across English-speaking countries. It strikes an ideal balance between classic appeal and approachable charm.

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