Genesis Cinema in Bethnal Green is set to premiere Kevin Spacey’s first film since his sexual assault case, after the previous host withdrew due to Spacey’s involvement. 

The actor was acquitted of nine charges of sexual assault against four men in July.

The Prince Charles Cinema in the West End was set to host the premiere of thriller Control, but pulled out last week after learning of Spacey’s involvement in the film. Genesis Cinema will now host the premiere on November 14.

Spacey is prominently featured on the poster for the film, but the actor does not appear on screen and has a voice-only role in the film.

Excerpts of an email Prince Charles Cinema sent to Control’s lead actress and project producer, Lauren Metcalfe, were released by the Telegraph:

“We have an issue. It is with my apologies that I have to inform you that we have cancelled your hire with us. 

“Last night it came to our attention that your film features Kevin Spacey, in particular his first film since the court case. My staff as well as I are horrified that we are being mentioned in the same breath as his new film for the premiere.”

A representative for Ms Metcalfe responded to the decision: “Whilst we were briefly disappointed, we have found a much better and more appropriate venue and one that is happy to be hosting the event.”

The venue change was confirmed by director Gene Fallaize, who wrote on Instagram: “The #controlmovie World Premiere will now take place at the larger Genesis Cinema on Nov 14 due to a number of reasons including an overwhelming demand for tickets, so thank you to everyone for your support, and now we can get more of you in!”

Genesis Cinema did not respond to requests for comment.

A manager at Genesis Cinema told ELL they were not allowed to comment on the matter.

Control will be released in both the US and UK on December 15.