New allegations surface that disgraced mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs influenced convicted rapist Danny Masterson’s predatory behavior.
Danny Masterson
Danny Masterson mug shot provided by the California Department of Corrections on Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2023, shows inmate Danny Masterson. “That ’70s Show” actor Masterson has been sent to a California state prison to serve his sentence for two rape convictions. Authorities said Wednesday that the 47-year-old Masterson has been admitted to North Kern State Prison. (California Dept. of Corrections via AP)
Danny Masterson is a convicted rapist and former actor. Born on March 13, 1976, he gained fame for his roles in popular television shows such as That ’70s Show (1998–2006) and The Ranch (2016–2018). However, his career and public image drastically shifted following serious legal troubles. In May 2023, Masterson was convicted of raping two women in 2003. A third count of rape resulted in a hung jury, and in September 2023, he was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison.
Masterson’s legal case took on additional complexity due to his involvement with the Church of Scientology, a controversial organization of which he and his victims were members at the time of the assaults. Reports indicate that the Church actively interfered with the victims’ attempts to seek justice, contributing to a delay of almost 20 years before the criminal case could proceed. Allegations include efforts by the Church to suppress the accusations and harass those who came forward, using intimidation tactics against the victims.
Masterson’s early life was far from the controversies that would later define his public persona. He was born on Long Island, New York, and raised alongside his brother, actor Christopher Masterson, best known for his role in Malcolm in the Middle. Danny Masterson started working as a child model and actor, appearing in over 100 commercials before landing more prominent roles in TV and film. His portrayal of Steven Hyde in That ’70s Show was a major breakthrough, cementing his status in Hollywood. Masterson became close friends with his co-star Ashton Kutcher and entertainment mogul/alleged crime boss Sean “Diddy” Combs.
However, Masterson’s legal issues began to surface in 2017, when multiple women accused him of sexual assault, prompting an investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department. Masterson consistently denied the allegations, but Netflix soon cut ties with him, removing him from The Ranch. Additional allegations surfaced, including from prominent figures like Cedric Bixler-Zavala, whose wife also accused Masterson of sexual assault. These developments led to both criminal and civil cases against him.
Masterson’s association with Scientology became a focal point during the trials. Victims alleged that the Church had forbidden them from reporting their assaults to the authorities, further claiming that they faced severe harassment after leaving the organization. The Church, through a policy known as “Fair Game,” allegedly launched aggressive campaigns of intimidation, including stalking, threats, and even harm to pets. One victim reported that her dog died under suspicious circumstances, believed to be tied to her decision to go public with her accusations against Masterson.
The criminal trial, which began in 2021, highlighted these allegations. Witnesses testified that Church officials discouraged them from going to the police and attempted to silence them. Despite Masterson’s defense accusing the women of colluding against him, the jury found him guilty of two counts of forcible rape in 2023, leading to his eventual sentencing.
Following the conclusion of the criminal case, the civil suit against both Masterson and the Church of Scientology resumed. The Church was accused of continued interference, including attempts to intimidate law enforcement officials and tamper with evidence during the trial. These allegations have further damaged the Church’s reputation and cast a long shadow over Masterson’s case.
Masterson’s conviction and subsequent sentencing mark the latest chapter in a once-successful career that has been entirely overshadowed by criminal activity and association with an institution embroiled in controversy. As his appeal moves through the courts, the broader implications of his case, particularly regarding Scientology’s involvement, continue to unfold.