10 fun and interesting Kevin Spacey facts

1. Kevin Spacey's Failed 'Gong Show' Audition Still Inspires Success

In 1978, Kevin Spacey attempted to make his television debut by auditioning to be a contestant on the popular game show, "The Gong Show". Unfortunately, his dreams of appearing on the show were dashed when the producers rejected him. Despite this setback, Spacey went on to become one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation, winning two Academy Awards and numerous other awards for his performances in films such as The Usual Suspects, American Beauty, and House of Cards.

Also → Val Kilmer and Kevin Spacey: Friends since high school

2. Kevin Spacey's Discipline and Career Shaped by Military School

As a child, Kevin Spacey had a penchant for destruction - so much so that he burned his sister's tree house to the ground. This incident was so severe that his parents felt the only way to help him was to send him to military school. It was there that he learned the discipline and structure that would shape his future career.

Also → Al Pacino's faith in Kevin Spacey pays off

3. Kevin Spacey's Military School Ends in Tire Incident

Kevin Spacey's time at military school was cut short after he was expelled for throwing a tire at a fellow classmate. The incident was serious enough to warrant his expulsion, and it marked the end of his time at the school. It's unclear what the consequences were for the classmate, but it's clear that Kevin Spacey's actions had serious repercussions.

Also → Kevin Kline Wins Oscar for 'A Fish Called Wanda'

4. Oscar & 'Daily Show' Star

In 2003, Kevin Spacey made history when he became the first actor to have won an Academy Award to appear on the iconic television show “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart”. Spacey, who had won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in the 1999 film American Beauty, was interviewed by Jon Stewart on the show, discussing his career and his latest film, The Life of David Gale. The interview was a huge success, and Spacey's appearance on the show was seen as a major milestone for both the show and the actor.

Also → Jack Lemmon: A Beloved Actor and Legacy

5. An Acclaimed Actor with a Career in Motion

Kevin Spacey is an acclaimed actor who has won numerous awards for his performances, including two Academy Awards for his roles in The Usual Suspects and American Beauty. His portrayal of Verbal Kint in The Usual Suspects earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, while his performance as Lester Burnham in American Beauty won him the Academy Award for Best Actor. Spacey's talent and dedication to his craft have made him one of the most respected actors in Hollywood.

Also → Pete Postlethwaite, Academy Award Nominee, Dies at 73

6. Kevin Spacey's Idols: Fonda, Pacino, Lemmon

Kevin Spacey has been inspired by some of the greatest actors of all time, citing Henry Fonda, Al Pacino, and Jack Lemmon as his idols. He has said that these actors have helped shape him into the actor he is today, and that he has learned a great deal from them. Spacey has been quoted as saying that he admires their ability to bring characters to life and to make them believable and relatable. He has also said that he has been influenced by their commitment to their craft and their dedication to their art.

Also → Neil deGrasse Tyson: Astrophysicist, Planetarium Dir.

7. Kevin Spacey Shaves His Head for the Sake of His Career

Kevin Spacey has twice taken the plunge and shaved his head for the sake of his craft, playing villains in two iconic films. In 1995's "Se7en", he played the sinister John Doe, and in 2006's "Superman Returns", he portrayed the villainous Lex Luthor. Both roles required Spacey to go bald, and he embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.

Also → Kevin Bacon: Iconic Actor

8. From "The Pink Panther" to Academy Awards

When the 2006 remake of "The Pink Panther" was being cast, Kevin Spacey was initially considered for the role of Inspector Clouseau. However, the part eventually went to Steve Martin, who delivered a memorable performance in the film. Spacey, who has won two Academy Awards, has had a long and successful career in Hollywood, starring in films such as "American Beauty" and "The Usual Suspects".

Also → Morgan Freeman: Iconic Actor Who Broke Barriers in Hollywood

9. Kevin Spacey is a huge fan of Professional Wrestling

Kevin Spacey is a huge fan of Professional Wrestling, often attending live events and watching matches on TV. He has even been known to dress up as his favorite wrestlers, such as The Undertaker and Stone Cold Steve Austin, for Halloween. He has also been spotted backstage at WWE events, and has even been invited to be a guest commentator for a few matches. Spacey's enthusiasm for the sport is evident, and he has even been quoted as saying, "I'm a huge fan of professional wrestling. It's a great form of entertainment and I'm proud to be a part of it."

Also → Robert Duvall: an American actor with a long and successful career

10. Kevin Spacey dedicates Oscar to late Jack Lemmon

When Kevin Spacey accepted his Best Actor Oscar for “American Beauty”, he dedicated the award to the late Jack Lemmon, citing him as the inspiration for his character. Spacey had drawn on Lemmon's performance in the 1960 classic “The Apartment”, which had earned Lemmon an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Spacey's heartfelt tribute to Lemmon was a touching moment that highlighted the impact Lemmon had on Spacey's career.