Danny Masterson‘s 30-year prison sentence reflects #MeToo progress, emphasizing accountability and justice within the entertainment industry
Credit: Google | Danny Masterson
In a pivotal moment for the #MeToo movement, former “That ’70s Show” star Danny Masterson has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for his convictions on rape charges. This significant verdict follows a rigorous legal battle that concluded earlier this year.
Masterson, renowned for his roles in “That ’70s Show” and “The Ranch“, faced allegations of raping three women at his Hollywood Hills home between 2001 and 2003, during the height of his fame. Although the jury found him guilty of raping two women in 2003, they couldn’t come to a decision regarding an accusation from November 2001 concerning an ex-girlfriend.
#BREAKING: ‘That ’70s Show’ actor Danny Masterson sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for raping 2 women
— Law&Crime Network (@LawCrimeNetwork) September 7, 2023
READ MORE: https://t.co/CeL4DU0rfc pic.twitter.com/fPxc45Oy8E
During the emotional sentencing hearing, the three survivors – identified as Jane Does – shared their harrowing experiences and the lasting trauma caused by Masterson’s actions. Jane Doe 1 called him “a true coward and heartless monster“, while Jane Doe 2 described the extensive therapy needed to cope with the aftermath of the assault. Jane Doe 3 revealed her diagnosis of PTSD, further underscoring the gravity of Masterson’s crimes.
The courtroom was filled with tension as Masterson’s family, including his wife Bijou Phillips, looked on. Despite Masterson’s defense team attempting to distance the case from the Church of Scientology, of which Masterson and the survivors were members, the role of the church in discouraging the survivors from reporting the crimes remained a central focus throughout both trials.
In a powerful statement, Judge Charlaine Olmedo emphasized that Masterson was not the victim and that his actions had taken away another person’s voice and choice. She sentenced him to 15 years to life on each of the two charges, with the terms to be served consecutively. This ensures that Masterson will be eligible for parole only after serving a minimum of 25 1/2 years.
The conviction and sentencing of Masterson represent a significant victory for the #MeToo movement, aligning with the successful prosecution of Harvey Weinstein. The survivors, who have displayed immense courage throughout the legal proceedings, have not only held a sexual predator accountable but have also exposed the role of a powerful institution in protecting him.
While Masterson’s legal team plans to appeal the verdict, the survivors remain committed to sharing their full story and shedding light on how Scientology and its enablers attempted to suppress their voices. For now, justice has prevailed, offering a ray of hope for survivors and a powerful message that sexual misconduct will not go unpunished in the entertainment industry.
RELATED NEWS
WEB STORIES FOR YOU
Stay connected with Today On Globe for the latest Global Issues and News Updates.
Explore more related articles at [TOG News / TOG Article]
