Kevin Spacey is offering a limited-edition signet ring for $228 (personalised version) to mark America's 250th anniversary. The ring, made of gold-tone stainless steel, features the motto "Per Ardua, Ad Astra" ("Through adversity, to the stars") and the initials "FU" for Frank Underwood, his character from House of Cards. Orders must be placed by July 22, with delivery taking up to three months due to Spacey's active work schedule.
Design and Controversy
The ring's design has drawn criticism for its odd choices: the RAF motto for a US independence ring, and the reference to a TV series that ended his career. Spacey was fired from House of Cards after sexual misconduct allegations and ordered to pay $31 million to the production company, later reduced to $1 million in 2024. The ring also includes a warning to avoid water, moisture, perfumes, lotions, harsh chemicals, and exercise.
Spacey's Career and Public Perception
Spacey, a two-time Oscar winner for The Usual Suspects and American Beauty, has struggled to regain relevance since the allegations. He posted a series of bizarre YouTube videos as Frank Underwood between 2018 and 2023, and now hopes the ring will resonate with supporters. According to the Shopify site, only a limited number are being made, and offensive or inappropriate personalisation will not be accepted.
Potential Impact and Satire
The article speculates that if successful, other cancelled celebrities might follow suit, referencing a hypothetical Harvey Weinstein anklet. The ring is described as an ugly piece of jewellery that tests the public's willingness to overlook Spacey's past.
