Danny Masterson, known for his role in That ’70s Show, is facing a daunting 30-year prison sentence. This sentence follows his conviction on two counts of forcible rape earlier this year in May. In a courtroom turn of events, it’s been reported that he received the maximum sentence associated with these convictions.
The sentencing took place on Thursday, September 7, and Danny Masterson was present to hear his fate. Judge Charlaine Olmedo had some powerful words for the actor during the sentencing, reminding him that he is not the victim in this case. She emphasized that his actions two decades ago took away another person’s voice and choice, stressing that these actions were indeed criminal and the reason he found himself in this predicament. She said to him:
“Mr. Masterson, you are not the victim here. Your actions 20 years ago took away another person’s voice and choice. Your actions 20 years ago were criminal, and that is why you are here.”
Family played a role in the courtroom proceedings as well, with Danny’s wife, Bijou Philips, sister Alanna Masterson, and brothers Will and Jordan Masterson in attendance. The gravity of the situation was evident as they witnessed the sentencing of a family member.
Danny’s conviction and subsequent sentencing come after a trial in 2022 ended in a mistrial, making this latest development a significant moment in the legal proceedings against him.
In a surprising turn of events, a new report has surfaced indicating that some of Danny Masterson’s former ’70s Show co-stars, including Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, Kurtwood Smith, and Debra Jo Rupp, had written letters in support of him ahead of his rape sentencing. These letters, recently obtained by journalist Tony Ortega and shared on his website, shed some light on their perspectives.
Ashton Kutcher, a long-time friend of Danny, expressed his support in his letter. He described Danny as a positive influence who taught him the value of addressing life’s issues directly and moving forward after resolving them:
“As a friend, Danny has been nothing but a positive influence on me. He’s taught me about being direct and confronting issues in life and relationships head-on, resolving them, and moving forward.”
Ashton went as far as to refer to Danny as a role model, highlighting his excellence in this regard.
Mila Kunis, another ’70s Show co-star, recalled the remarkable influence Danny had on her life. In her heartfelt letter, she referred to him as a dear friend and emphasized her initial impression of his innate goodness and genuine nature, and wrote:
“I first met Danny during our time working together on That 70′s Show, and from the very beginning, I could sense his innate goodness and genuine nature. Throughout our time together, Danny has proven to be an amazing friend, confidant, and, above all, an outstanding older brother figure to me.”
While these letters may provide some insight into Danny Masterson’s relationships with his co-stars, it’s important to remember that legal proceedings are complex, and the final verdict rests on the evidence presented in court. The 30-year sentence serves as a reminder of the gravity of the charges he faced and the impact of his actions on the victim.
