Top Boy actor Micheal Ward broke down in tears at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Friday as a jury unanimously found him not guilty of all charges, including two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault. The charges stemmed from an alleged incident in January 2023, when Ward was accused of assaulting a woman in the back of a Mercedes after meeting her outside a New Year's party in east London.
Emotional Verdict and Family Relief
As each count was read out, the 28-year-old actor became visibly emotional, bursting into tears when the final not-guilty verdict was delivered. Shouts of relief erupted from his family and friends seated in the public gallery. Ward was then helped from the courtroom by his defence lawyer. The trial lasted two weeks, and the jury deliberated for five hours and 25 minutes before reaching their decision.
Ward's Testimony: 'Wholly Consensual'
During the trial, Ward maintained that the encounter was consensual. When asked about his perspective, he stated: "Everything we did was wholly consensual." He told the court he believed both parties were "having a great time" and shared a "mutual attraction." He added: "We engaged in consensual sex, had a great time and she was actively participating in what we were doing all the time."
Solicitor's Statement: 'Profound Impact'
Speaking outside the court, Ward's solicitor, Humzah Ilyas, said the case had had a "profound impact" on the actor, but that he was "looking forward to getting back to doing the work he loves." In a statement, Ilyas said: "Micheal Ward is enormously grateful to the members of the jury for taking the time to examine the evidence in this case with such care. As he maintained throughout this case, this was a consensual sexual encounter. The jury agreed and cleared him of all wrongdoing."
The solicitor noted that the investigation had lasted three and a half years, during which Ward's life and career were put on hold. "This has, inevitably, had a profound impact on him and those closest to him. Micheal is thankful this process has now reached a conclusion. He looks forward to getting back to the work he loves and focusing on the future."
Acknowledgment of Sexual Violence Survivors
Ilyas added that Ward, who stood beside him during the statement and appeared emotional, wanted to acknowledge those who have experienced sexual violence and abuse. "They deserve to be heard, treated with compassion, and have their allegations taken seriously." Ward also expressed gratitude to God and his family.
Background and Career
Ward is best known for his role as London drug dealer Jamie in the critically acclaimed Netflix series Top Boy. In 2020, he received the BAFTA Rising Star award. His film credits include Blue Story and Sam Mendes' Empire of Light. Born in Jamaica, Ward moved to east London as a young child and was raised by his mother alongside his three sisters after his father died in a car crash when Ward was two years old.
