Danny Masterson, a well-known actor and prominent Scientologist, has been sentenced to a minimum of 30 years in prison for raping two women in his Los Angeles home two decades ago. In a letter that has recently surfaced, Masterson’s former co-star Ashton Kutcher referred to him as a “role model” and a positive influence in his life.
Kutcher, who acted alongside Masterson in the popular sitcom “That ’70s Show,” wrote a submission to the judge overseeing the case, expressing his support for the convicted actor. He claimed that Masterson had been a friend, co-worker, and role model to him for 25 years, highlighting the older actor’s honesty and integrity.
Despite being aware of Masterson’s guilty verdict, Kutcher requested that his character reference be considered during the sentencing process. He argued that Masterson is not a continued threat to society and emphasized the importance of him being present in his daughter’s life.
Kutcher’s wife and fellow “That ’70s Show” actress, Mila Kunis, also submitted a statement to the judge, vouching for Masterson’s character. Kunis praised Masterson for his caring nature, guidance, and supportive role in her life.
After their time together on “That ’70s Show,” Masterson and Kutcher reunited on Netflix’s “The Ranch.” However, Masterson was fired from the show in 2017 when the Los Angeles police began investigating multiple rape allegations against him.
Masterson was initially charged with three counts of rape, but the first trial ended in a deadlock. In May, he was convicted on two counts of rape in a retrial. The presiding judge, Charlaine Olmedo, ruled that Masterson must serve 15 years to life for each count, to be served consecutively. This means that Masterson will not be eligible for parole until he reaches the age of 77.
In addition to the prison sentence, Masterson, who is married to actress Bijou Phillips and has a nine-year-old daughter, has been ordered to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life upon his release.
It is worth noting that all three women involved in the charges against Masterson were members of the Church of Scientology, as was he.
