A reference to Kevin Spacey was removed from Tuesday’s episode of “This Is Us” following Anthony Rapp’s accusation of sexual harassment against the “House of Cards” star.
“In light of recent events, the producers have decided to remove the brief reference to Kevin Spacey,” 20th Century Fox Television, which produces the series, said in a statement.
The reference was originally part of a 2008 flashback scene in which Kevin’s (Justin Hartley) roommate comes home and shares news that he was cast in a movie with Spacey. In the version that aired, the roommate says he got a part in a Christian Bale movie.
As EW notes, the Spacey reference was purely coincidental, as the scene was filmed prior to the allegation.
Rapp, known for his roles in “Rent” and “Star Trek: Discovery,” accused Spacey Sunday night of sexually harassing him at a party in 1986 when Rapp was just 14. The actor shared his story with BuzzFeed News, telling the outlet Spacey invited him to the party, where he was the only underage person. At the end of the night, Spacey allegedly “picked Rapp up, placed him on his bed and climbed on top of him, making a sexual advance.”
In response to the allegation, Spacey did not deny the incident, though he said he did not recall it taking place. The actor apologized to Rapp for “what would have been deeply inappropriate drunken behavior.”
Spacey also used his statement to come out publicly as a gay man, which sparked outrage and disappointment among fellow celebrities including Zachary Quinto and George Takei.
Spacey has faced various consequences since Rapp came forward. Production on the sixth and final season of “House of Cards” has been suspended “until further notice” and the actor will no longer be honored at the 2017 International Emmy Awards.
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