Danny Masterson's 30-Year Sentence: A Tale of Justice, Scientology, and the Courage of Victims
Exploring the Church's Involvement and Its Impact on the High-Profile Rape Case
Content Warning: This article discusses sensitive topics related to rape. Reader discretion is advised.
Monsters will always exist. There's one inside each of us. But an angel lives there, too. There is no more important agenda than figuring out how to slay one and nurture the other.
Hey there, Justice Moms and Dads! In a world where celebrities and actors are often put on a pedestal, it's easy to forget that these are real people with real lives—and sometimes, real issues. According to AP, Danny Masterson, “That ’70s Show” star and prominent member of a cult known as the Church of Scientology, has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison Thursday for raping two women.
Los Angeles, CA — In a courtroom that felt more like a Hollywood set, actor Danny Masterson, best known for his role as Steven Hyde on "That '70s Show," was sentenced to 30 years in prison for raping two women. But this isn't just a story about Masterson; it's a complex narrative involving Scientology, the legal system, and the lives forever altered.
The Gavel Drops, and It's Heavy
Judge Charlaine Olmedo was unyielding as she handed down a 30-year sentence—15 years for each felony rape charge. Masterson's wife, Bijou Phillips, who has been a steadfast presence through two criminal trials, was visibly shaken. "Mr. Masterson, you are not the victim here," Olmedo declared, dismantling Masterson's defense in no uncertain terms.
Both Masterson and Phillips are devout Scientologists, and the Church had a VIP section in the courtroom. But here's where it gets complicated: the victims, also former members of the Church, claim Scientology tried to silence them. According to them, the Church "enabled and protected" Masterson due to his celebrity status.
Masterson had two opportunities to walk free. The first trial ended in a mistrial, and he was out on a $3.3 million bail. However, since his conviction on May 31, he's been donning prison orange. Masterson's attorney, Shawn Holley, stated they are "very disappointed in the sentence" and will appeal, claiming "significant evidentiary and constitutional issues."
“I know that you’re sitting here steadfast in your claims of innocence, and thus no doubt feeling victimized by a justice system that has failed you,” Olmedo told Masterson before handing down the sentence. “But Mr. Masterson, you are not the victim here. Your actions 20 years ago took away another person’s voice, and choice. One way or another you will have to come to terms with your prior actions, and their consequences.”
The Real Victims Speak Up
Jane Doe #1 and Jane Doe #2, as they're referred to in court documents, gave heart-wrenching testimonies. One of the victims, identified only as N. Trout, said, "You relish in hurting women. It is your addiction." Another victim, Jennifer B., called out the Church of Scientology for alleged interference, stating, "It's been filled with attempts to silence us all, to intimidate us and even obstruct."
Masterson was charged with forcibly raping three women—N. Trout, Jennifer B., and Chrissy B.—from 2001 to 2003. The victims are also suing him and Scientology in civil court for harassment and intimidation. The panel was deadlocked on the third count involving Chrissy B, Masterson's longtime girlfriend.
Bijou Phillips now faces the daunting task of raising her daughter alone. Actor Billy Baldwin, married to Phillips' half-sister, was a frequent courtroom guest. Family gatherings are about to get even more uncomfortable.
The Church's Shadow
The Church of Scientology loomed large over the proceedings. Leah Remini, a former Scientologist and outspoken critic, was in attendance. Masterson's legal team accused Remini of convincing the women to falsely accuse him, an accusation she vehemently denies.
This isn't just a story about a fallen star; it's a cautionary tale that intertwines fame, faith, and the justice system, leaving a trail of broken lives. District Attorney George Gascón applauded the victims' courage, stating, "This has been a long and arduous road for the victims of Mr. Masterson. They not only survived his abuse, they also survived a system that is often not kind to victims."
So there you have it. Danny Masterson, once a beloved TV star, now a convicted felon. And in the middle of it all, a controversial Church, a devastated family, and two brave women who refused to be silenced. As for Scientology? This isn't the kind of publicity they were hoping for.
Got thoughts? We know you do. Sound off in the comments below.
Studies show that the emotional toll of sexual assault often delays survivors from coming forward. Our legal system has been slow to adapt, leaving many survivors without recourse. But a seismic shift is underway.
The Adult Survivors Act, a landmark New York State law, is setting a new precedent. Effective until November 23, 2023, this law provides a one-year window for any adult survivor, irrespective of when the assault happened, to file a civil lawsuit against their abuser or the institution that harbored them.
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