The trial of BAFTA-winning actor Micheal Ward continues at Snaresbrook Crown Court, with the Top Boy star taking to the witness box to deny all allegations against him.

Proceedings began on 30 June, with prosecutors alleging Ward raped and sexually assaulted a woman after the pair met during a night out in east London on New Year's Day in 2023. The 28-year-old denies two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration and one count of sexual assault.

During the latest stage of the trial, Ward gave evidence for the first time, firmly rejecting the allegations.

When asked whether he had raped or sexually assaulted the complainant, he told jurors: "Absolutely not."

He also maintained that every sexual encounter between them was consensual, telling the court he believed they were "having a great time."

Questioned by the prosecution, Ward repeatedly denied that the complainant had appeared uncomfortable or unwilling during their encounter. He told jurors he did not believe she had withdrawn her consent at any point and said he would have stopped if he thought she no longer wanted to continue.

The court also heard further details from the complainant's earlier evidence, in which she said she did not verbally say "no" during the alleged incident but claimed she felt frozen, frightened and unable to resist. Prosecutors argue that a lack of verbal refusal does not amount to consent, while Ward maintains the interaction was entirely consensual.

Ward disputed the complainant's account of events, insisting he never forced her into any sexual activity and denying that he ignored her objections. His defence is that everything which took place that evening was consensual, while the prosecution argues otherwise. The jury has also heard evidence from the complainant, who previously alleged she felt frightened during the incident and did not feel she had a choice.

Ward first rose to prominence through roles in Blue Story and Netflix's Top Boy, before receiving widespread acclaim for his performances in Empire of Light and Small Axe. In 2020, he won the BAFTA Rising Star Award, cementing his place as one of Britain's most promising young actors. Despite his successful career on screen, the focus now remains on the evidence being presented in court.

The trial is expected to continue as both the prosecution and defence present the remainder of their cases. Ward continues to deny all five charges against him, and no verdict has been reached. As proceedings remain ongoing, it is for the jury to assess all of the evidence before reaching a decision.

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