Micheal Ward, once hailed as one of Britain’s most promising actors, is now facing a very different spotlight after he was arrested. The 27-year-old, known for his breakthrough performance as Jamie in Top Boy and most recently for his role in Ari Aster’s Eddington, has been charged with two counts of rape and three counts of sexual assault.
On Friday, reports citing London’s Metropolitan Police revealed that the actor has been charged due to a 2023 incident involving a woman. Ward’s case will be mentioned in Thames Magistrates’ Court on August 28, when he will appear before a judge. With the case active, the legal authorities have urged the public and media to avoid sharing any content that could compromise the proceedings.
Ward’s acting skills in British films captivated audiences, but his legal troubles have now left many stunned. Ware was seen walking the red carpet at Cannes earlier this year alongside other top actors like Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone. The occasion marked the premiere of Eddington.
According to reports, Catherine Baccas, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London South, confirmed that the actor was charged following a careful review of evidence. The charges include two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault.
The rape allegations are still under investigation, which is being led by Detective Superintendent Scott Ware, the head of the Metropolitan Police. Ware noted that specialist officers are continuing to support the woman who came forward. “We know investigations of this nature can have a significant impact on those who make reports,” he said.
Ward was born in Jamaica, specifically in Spanish Town, according to reports. He was raised in Cheshunt of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. In his successful acting career, he earned the BAFTA Rising Star award in 2020 and also earned a nomination for his role in Empire of Light.