Award-winning British actor Michael Ward, best known for his role in the hit Netflix series Top Boy, appeared before Thames Magistrates’ Court in London on Thursday to face multiple sexual offence charges.

The 27-year-old actor has been charged with five counts, including two counts of rape, two counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual assault against a woman in January 2023. Ward, who also stars in the upcoming Hollywood film Eddington alongside Joaquin Phoenix and Pedro Pascal, denied the allegations in a statement last month, insisting he has cooperated fully with police.

At the hearing, Ward confirmed his personal details but did not enter a plea. He was granted conditional bail, with restrictions preventing him from contacting the alleged victim. The case has been transferred to Snaresbrook Crown Court, where he is scheduled to appear on September 25.