British actor Micheal Ward, the 2020 BAFTA Rising Star winner, appeared in court today facing serious sexual offence charges. The 27-year-old, renowned for his roles in Top Boy, Small Axe, Blue Story, Empire of Light, and the recently released film Eddington, stood briefly at Thames Magistrates’ Court to confirm his identity, but he did not enter a plea.

Ward is accused of two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault involving a single woman, which allegedly took place in January 2023. After the initial hearing, Judge Jane McIvor granted him conditional bail, including strict conditions that prohibit any contact with the complainant. He is scheduled to appear next at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 25 September.‍

Following the charges, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) emphasised the importance of fair trial rights and urged the public to refrain from sharing commentary that could prejudice proceedings. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that specialised officers remain in place to support the woman who came forward.‍

Ward issued a statement after being charged, asserting: “I deny the charges against me entirely. I have cooperated fully with the police throughout their investigation and will continue to do so. I have full faith that the legal process will clear my name.”‍

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