Actor Kevin Spacey took to the witness stand Thursday to testify in his own defense in a sexual assault trial in London.

       (Lucy North / Associated Press)

       By BRIAN MELLEY

       Associated Press

       July 13, 2023 4:50 AM PT

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       LONDON —

       Oscar-winning actor Kevin Spacey testified Thursday in his sexual assault trial, swearing in a clear and loud voice to tell the “full truth and nothing but the truth” in what could be the most consequential speaking part of his life.

       Spacey began by discussing how he got involved in the theater, joking that his mother would say he began acting the moment he emerged from the womb.

       The testimony provided some light history on his life before delving into the serious matter before the court.

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       Four men have accused the two-time Academy Award winner of sexually assaulting them between 2001 and 2013, describing disturbing encounters that allegedly escalated from unwanted touching to aggressive crotch-grabbing.

       One man who called Spacey a “vile sexual predator” said he passed out or fell asleep at the actor’s London flat and woke up to find the actor performing oral sex on him.

       Spacey has denied the charges and is expected to mount a vigorous defense.

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       The 63-year-old actor was one of the biggest stars of the stage and screen when sexual misconduct accusations brought his career to a halt. If convicted, he could face a prison term that would doom his hopes of a comeback.

       Spacey told the German magazine Zeit in an article published last month: “There are people right now who are ready to hire me the moment I am cleared of these charges in London.”

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       Spacey has pleaded not guilty to 12 charges that include sexual and indecent assault and one count of causing a person to engage in penetrative sexual activity without consent.

       Spacey, who owns homes in London and the U.S., is free on unconditional bail.