That 70’s Show Actor Danny Masterson Convicted of Rape

Former That ’70s Show star Danny Masterson was convicted on two counts of rape on Wednesday, May 31, 2023 by a Los Angeles court. The actor was accused of sexually assaulting three women between 2001 and 2003. The unanimous decision of the jury came after two days of deliberation in the case that has been ongoing for more than four years.

The allegations against Masterson came to light in 2017, and he was charged in June 2020. The actor has vehemently denied the accusations and called them baseless. However, the prosecution presented evidence, including testimony from the victims, that proved beyond a reasonable doubt that Masterson committed the heinous crimes against the women.

The actor’s legal team has criticized the prosecution for bringing the charges, suggesting they were politically motivated and aimed to score points against Masterson and the Church of Scientology, of which he is a member. However, Masterson’s celebrity status didn’t deter the jurors from finding him guilty.

The victims, who are referred to as Jane Does in the trial, testified that Masterson raped them while they were unconscious. The court heard that the actor used his fame and position to intimidate and pressure the women into having sex with him. Prosecutors also presented evidence that Masterson had threatened to destroy the victims’ careers and reputations if they spoke out about the assaults.

It is worth noting that Masterson’s rape trial was not without controversy. The Church of Scientology was accused of shielding him from prosecution by silencing the victims and pressuring authorities not to pursue the case. The church has denied the allegations, and Masterson has maintained that he is innocent.

The implications of Masterson’s conviction are significant, not only for the victims but for other victims of sexual assault. The case serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, regardless of their status, power, or wealth. It highlights the importance of holding perpetrators accountable and giving a voice to victims who have been silenced for too long.

Masterson faces up to 45 years in prison for his crimes. However, his legal team has said they plan to appeal the conviction, calling it flawed and unjust. Nonetheless, the verdict stands a historic moment for the #MeToo movement, which has exposed and brought to justice many high-profile individuals accused of sexual misconduct.

Danny Masterson has been found guilty of rape, and justice has been served. The verdict sends a powerful message that sexual assault is a crime that will not go unpunished. It serves as a reminder to all that there must be no impunity for those who traumatize and harm others.