Top Boy actor Micheal Ward speaks of compassion after being found not guilty of rape
Actor Micheal Ward has been found not guilty of rape and sexual assault charges by a UK jury. Ward, known for his role in 'Top Boy', expressed relief and a desire to rebuild his life after the trial concluded.
Why it matters
The case highlights the significant personal and professional toll legal proceedings take on public figures, even following an acquittal.
Actor Michael Ward spoke of having compassion for sex abuse victims and his hope to rebuild his life after a UK jury cleared him of rape.
The rape charges have had “a profound impact on him and those closest to him”, according to the Bafta-winning star – who has not been able to work since a consensual sexual encounter in 2023 threw his life into turmoil.
On Friday a jury, sitting at east London ’s Snaresbrook crown court, took five hours and 25 minutes to unanimously find him not guilty of two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration and one count of sexual assault against the woman on January 2nd, 2023.
Ward (28) denied assaulting the woman in the back of his friend’s Mercedes, saying their encounter had been consensual and they were “having a great time”.
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