Kevin Spacey Named Oxford University Professor

KEVIN SPACEY is set to take over STAR TREK actor PATRICK STEWART's post as a visiting professor at the U.K.'s oldest university.

The American Beauty star has been appointed the next Cameron Mackintosh Visiting Professor of Contemporary Theatre at Oxford University's St. Catherine's College.

Spacey, who takes up his role in October (08), will be expected to deliver seminars, lecture and workshop with students.

He says, "It really is an honour for me to have been invited to follow such illustrious names and take up this role at Oxford.

"The university is steeped in tradition and has a great heritage in the arts and I look forward to working with students and staff."

Previous visiting professors include composer Stephen Sondheim, playwright Alan Ayckbourn and lyricist Sir Tim Rice.

Spacey currently serves as artistic director at West End theatre The Old Vic.