‘Eddington’ actor Micheal Ward charged with rape and sexual assault

British actor Micheal Ward has been charged with rape and sexual assault, the Metropolitan Police Service confirmed in a news release on Friday.

The Empire of Light and Eddington actor, 27, faces two counts of rape and three counts of sexual assault. The charges are related to an incident with a woman that occurred in January 2023.

Prosecutors authorized the charges after an investigation by Met Police detectives.

“Our specialist officers continue to support the woman who has come forward — we know investigations of this nature can have significant impact on those who make reports,” said Detective Superintendent Scott Ware in a statement.

Representatives for Ward did not immediately respond to Entertainment Weekly‘s request for comment.

Ward most recently played Michael, a Black deputy sheriff framed for murder, in the A24 film Eddington. He also starred as gang leader Jamie Tovell in the popular UK crime drama Top Boy. The actor won the BAFTA Rising Star award in 2020.

Ward was dropped by his U.K. agent at Olivia Bell Management, according to Deadline. His client page is no longer available on the company’s website. He is represented by CAA in the U.S.

Ward will appear in court on Aug. 28.

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