Stephen Baldwin, Kevin’s Usual Suspects costar, was no less magnanimous. Baldwin spoke off the cuff with genuine admiration and respect for Spacey; calling him one of a dwindling breed. “Kevin’s legendary for keeping it about the work and the choices he makes.”
Beyond simply acting, Spacey has directed, written and produced film and theatre for years– perhaps most prominently as the Art Director of London’s own Old Vic Theatre, since 2003. His acting career has flourished since his first major role (opposite Jack Lemmon) in the 1986 Broadway production of Eugene O’Neill’s Long Day’s Journey Into Night.
Lemmon was a significant influence on Spacey, as well as a mentor and personal friend. He was also an earlier recipient of the Edwin Booth Lifetime Achievement Award; an event Spacey was on hand to witness.
The Players Club (as it’s also known) has a vivid history on Gramercy street, founded in 1888 by legendary actor Edwin Booth (yes, thatBooth). It is a gorgeous house with portraits of present and past members hanging from every wall. A full bar and dining room sit on the basement level, while upper floors historically once held the first meetings of Actor’s Equity. Props from classic shows rest in glass cases, while the death masks of select past members are tucked covertly away.
