“That ’70s Show” actor Danny Masterson has been handed a severe sentence of 30 years to life in prison for the rape of two women that occurred over two decades ago at his Hollywood Hills residence. The sentencing was delivered by Judge Charlaine Olmedo in the Los Angeles County Superior Court, leaving Masterson, 47, visibly emotionless.
Danny Masterson career is finished
During the sentencing, Judge Olmedo addressed Masterson, acknowledging his claims of innocence but firmly stating, “Mr. Masterson, you are not the victim here.” Masterson’s wife, Bijou Phillips, who had been a constant presence during his trials, concealed her emotions behind sunglasses and left the courtroom without uttering a word.
Moreover, this sentencing comes four months after Masterson was convicted on two of the three rape charges brought against him during his retrial in Los Angeles. The charges pertained to incidents that took place between 2001 and 2003, involving three women identified as Jane Doe #1, Jane Doe #2, and Jane Doe #3.
Throughout both trials, Masterson did not take the stand, and he has consistently denied any involvement in the alleged sexual assaults through his legal team. At his sentencing, he remained silent as the two women he was convicted of raping, along with a former girlfriend whose case resulted in a hung jury in May, delivered impassioned pleas for a harsh punishment.
Jane Doe #2, one of the survivors, stated, “When you raped me, you stole from me — that’s what rape is, a theft of the spirit,” and further described Masterson as “pathetic, disturbed, and completely violent.” Jane Doe #1 expressed her disappointment at his lack of remorse and regret for the pain he had caused. Then Jane Doe #3 revealed that Masterson’s actions had left her with a lifetime of trauma.
Moreover, in response to the sentencing, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón commended the survivors for their courage in coming forward and participating in the legal process, hoping that this sentence would bring them peace. He also expressed his commitment to ending the culture of entitlement among Hollywood elite who prey on women.
Legal team believes convictions will be overturned
Masterson’s legal battle is far from over, as indicated by one of his lawyers, Shawn Holley. Holley stated that they believe the convictions will be overturned and expressed their confidence in the appellate lawyers working on the case.
Masterson’s first trial ended in a mistrial in November, with jurors leaning towards acquittal. In the second trial, he was convicted of raping Jane Doe #1 and Jane Doe #2, but the jury could not reach a decision regarding Jane Doe #3. All three accusers were former members of the Church of Scientology, to which Masterson also belongs.
The trials brought significant attention to the Church of Scientology, with allegations that it attempted to cover up the accusations. Judge Olmedo clarified during the retrial that Scientology was not a defendant, but witnesses were allowed to testify about church officials pressuring them not to report the rape allegations to the police.
Scientology spokeswoman Karin Pouw consistently denied these allegations and reiterated that church doctrine requires members to adhere to all laws of the land. After Masterson’s sentencing, the church released a statement expressing its objection to the prosecution’s introduction of religion into the trial, asserting that it was a violation of the First Amendment, emphasizing that the church was not a party to the case.
Cinema Gold is sponsored by Pod Decks. Pod Decks are the hottest new tool for podcasters looking to have more meaningful conversations or gamify their podcast. Simply shuffle up, ask a question, and let the content roll. Order yours today at poddecks.com and use code Larry21 for 10% off your order.
NOTE: Moreover, this article contains affiliate links, which will earn the site a commission if the product is purchased.
If you enjoy our writing, please consider leaving a small donation. Your support helps keep the lights on and allows us to hire more writers and grow our site.
 |  |  |
