Danny Masterson, known for his role in ‘That ’70s Show,’ has formally filed an appeal against his recent rape conviction, following a hefty prison sentence of 30 years to life imposed in September 2023. This conviction stemmed from allegations of two rapes that took place back in 2003. In a detailed 246-page brief released by Masterson’s attorney, Cliff Gardner, the actor contends that multiple legal missteps and biases during the trial infringed upon his rights to a fair judicial process.
Gardner asserts that Masterson’s trial was filled with serious judicial errors that compromised the jury’s perspective on the evidence presented. He stated that a large volume of exculpatory evidence — information that could potentially clear Masterson of guilt — was not shown to the jury during the court proceedings. Furthermore, Gardner pointed out that Masterson’s legal team would be submitting additional documentation focusing on further issues with the trial process.
Masterson, now 48, faced charges for three counts of rape in 2020, and after a retrial prompted by a hung jury on one of the accusations, he was ultimately convicted on two counts in May 2023. The unresolved count resulted in a mistrial. Initially arrested in 2020, he had pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Despite the gravity of the situation, Masterson’s legal representation remains optimistic about his exoneration, citing their belief that the emergence of all relevant evidence and witness testimonies will clear his name. After receiving his sentence, Masterson’s estranged wife, Bijou Phillips, who had supported him throughout the trial, filed for divorce. Following the proceedings, Masterson agreed to grant Phillips custody of their 10-year-old daughter, Fianna, while she visited him at the California Men’s Colony, where he is currently serving his sentence.
For anyone affected by the topics discussed, resources are available through the Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-330-0226.
