That ’70s Show Star Danny Masterson Appeals Rape Conviction

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As a long-time fan of Danny Masterson and his iconic role as Hyde in “That ’70s Show”, it’s disheartening to witness his legal struggles unfold. I remember him as a charismatic, hilarious character who brought joy to millions of viewers worldwide. However, the allegations against him are deeply concerning, and if proven true, they paint a completely different picture.

Danny Masterson is embarking on a new legal battle. 

Approximately a year following the conviction of “That ’70s Show” actor for two rape charges in May 2023, which was followed by a sentence of 30 years to life in September of the same year, he has now submitted an appeal.

According to documents submitted by attorney Cliff Gardner and obtained by US Weekly, then reviewed by TopMob News, the actor asserts that his recent court case, which lasted two weeks in May 2023 (following an initial mistrial in December 2022) infringed upon his entitlement to a fair trial.

In the written argument by Masterson’s lawyer, it was asserted that since the witnesses in the trial, who were victims of Masterson’s alleged sexual assault, had also filed civil lawsuits against the actor, they might have a “monetary reason to ensure Mr. Masterson was found guilty of rape.” This suggests that their primary motivation for testifying could be the potential financial gain from a successful criminal conviction.

The papers presented a point that the trial was in conflict with federal law, as it apparently breached Masterson’s Fifth and Sixth Amendment rights – specifically, by mistakenly disregarding evidence crucial for fair treatment, which is the right to due process.

15 months following his sentencing to a 30-years to life term (the maximum sentence legally possible for his conviction), Masterson’s appeal has been made. This was after he was found guilty on two counts of forcible rape, which occurred in 2003. The women who made these allegations had initially met Masterson through the Church of Scientology, and claimed that he exploited his influence within the church to evade repercussions, according to the Associated Press.

In this situation, I stand firm in my innocence, just like Masterson did. Although he was found guilty on certain charges, including an allegation of rape from a former longtime companion for whom the jury could not reach a unanimous decision, we both maintain our innocence. My legal representative has communicated plans to file an appeal.

Following the sentencing of Masterson by Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo in 2023, she firmly disputed his claims of innocence.

In her statement at the September 2023 sentencing, as reported by Associated Press, she clarified: “I understand that you’re firmly asserting your innocence and perhaps feeling wronged by a justice system that hasn’t served you justly. However, Mr. Masterson, it is crucial to recognize that you are not the victim in this situation. Twenty years ago, your actions silenced another individual, taking away their freedom to make choices. Eventually, you will need to confront and accept the repercussions of those past actions.

TopMob News has reached out to Masterson’s attorney but has not yet heard back. 

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2024-12-19 20:47