Kevin Spacey to be honored with 'special' Olivier Award

Kevin Spacey will be awarded with a special prize for his outstanding contribution to the Old Vic at this year's Olivier Awards.

Caro Newling, president of the Society of London Theatre said that the advocacy of the Oscar-winner, who became artistic director at London's Old Vic in 2004 has been a constant boon, and they will miss him as a valued colleague, the BBC reported.

The 55-year-old director's final performance as the Old Vic's artistic director will see him revive his title role in 'Clarence Darrow', and previously appeared in several Old Vic productions during his tenure, including Richard II, Speed-The-Plow and Richard III.

The 'House of Cards' actor has already been awarded with the Best Actor Oscar award for 'American Beauty' in 2000 and his first Golden Globe, for 'House of Cards', an honorary CBE for his services to theatre.

Matthew Warchus, director of 'Matilda' will take over Spacey's position in the autumn.