British actor Michael Ward became visibly emotional after a London jury unanimously found him not guilty of all rape and sexual assault charges, bringing a closely watched legal case to an end.
The 28-year-old actor was acquitted on July 10 following a trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court. Ward had denied two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault, maintaining throughout the proceedings that the January 2023 encounter in east London had been entirely consensual.
After approximately five and a half hours of deliberation, the jury returned unanimous not guilty verdicts on every charge.
The decision prompted an emotional response inside the courtroom, where Ward broke down in tears as the verdicts were read. Surrounded by family and friends, the actor expressed gratitude, thanking both his loved ones and God after the lengthy legal ordeal came to an end.
Outside the courthouse, Ward's solicitor read a statement on his behalf, describing the past year as an incredibly difficult period that had placed the actor's career on hold while the case moved through the courts.
Despite celebrating his acquittal, Ward also acknowledged the importance of supporting victims of sexual violence. In his statement, he said that survivors "deserve to be heard, treated with compassion, and have their allegations taken seriously," emphasizing that his relief at the verdict should not diminish the seriousness of such cases.
The trial was briefly interrupted after YouTuber Murad Merali posted videos discussing evidence presented during the proceedings. The judge ordered the content to be removed and instructed Merali to leave the courthouse.
Ward, known for acclaimed performances in film and television, can now begin rebuilding his career following the unanimous verdict. His emotional reaction in court-and his decision to publicly thank God and his family after the acquittal-quickly became one of the most talked-about moments following the conclusion of the case.
