Kevin Spacey returned to speak publicly during a masterclass at the Italian Global Series Festival, where he was honored with the Maximo Excellence Award. The Oscar-winning actor opened up to the audience, reflecting on the last seven years of his life, which were marked by accusations, trials, and a lengthy artistic exile. “These years have enabled me to stop, reflect, and listen,” Spacey stated. "I am glad for the work I am still able to accomplish, on and off screen. But most of all, I am grateful to those who have stood by me without judgment, waiting for the outcome of the trials. I'll put my trust in them for the rest of my life". At the same time, the actor expressed forgiveness to those who condemned him without waiting for the verdict: "I forgive them, but I will not look for those people anymore". In recent years, Spacey has faced many trials in the United States and the United Kingdom, all of which resulted in not guilty verdicts, with two cases still pending in the UK. "They have been challenging years, but they have taught me what true friendship is, and they have restored my connection to my family and to myself. I have no resentment or desire for vengeance. I seek love, understanding, and empathy". He claims that the relationship with the public has never broken down. "I am incredibly appreciative to the fans who persisted to approach me on the street. I know there are individuals online that dislike me, but I've never met them in person". During the masterclass, the actor chronicled the important stages of his career: his training at Juilliard, his stage roles, his success with 'The Usual Suspects' and 'American Beauty', and his work on the television series 'House of Cards'. Speaking of Frank Underwood, Spacey jokes: "I do not have any advice to offer Trump as an actor, but as a former president, I could advise him that power is merely a perception, and it is only as lasting as the people who allow it." He then remembered with emotion his childhood friend Val Kilmer, who had recently passed away: "He was my closest friend during my time at Juilliard. It's hard to imagine life without him". After years out of the spotlight, Spacey has returned to work on small independent projects, such as Franco Nero’s 'The Man Who Drew God', for which he publicly thanked the director “for giving me a chance when no one else would". He is now working on new projects, including the thrillers 'The Awakening' and '1780'. "I've always desired a long-term career like Jack Lemmon or Spencer Tracy. Today, I'm interested in stories of redemption, silence, and survival. After everything I've experienced, I feel like I truly understand them".