Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis apologize after their letters backing Danny Masterson in rape case spark controversy

Former "That '70s Show" actor Danny Masterson was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for the rape of two women in 2003. The sentencing took place in Los Angeles, and it marked a significant development in a case that has garnered widespread attention.

Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis Apologize

In the aftermath of Danny Masterson's sentencing, fellow "That '70s Show" actors Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have issued apologies for letters they wrote in support of Masterson before the sentencing. These letters, which were made public after the sentencing, have stirred controversy and prompted the couple to express their regrets.

Video Apology on Instagram

Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis chose to address the matter through a video posted on Instagram. In the video, the couple acknowledged the potential pain their letters may have caused.

Intent Behind the Letters

Ashton Kutcher clarified that their letters were intended to be read by the judge overseeing the case and were not meant to undermine the testimony of the victims or retraumatize them in any way. He stressed their intention to avoid causing any harm and expressed regret if their letters had unintended consequences.

Danny Masterson's Family Requested the Letters

The couple explained that Danny Masterson's family had approached them after the actor's conviction in May and requested character letters. These letters were meant to provide a perspective on Masterson based on their 25-year-long relationship with him. They emphasized that their motivation was to describe the person they knew over the years.

Publication of the Letters

The character letters written by Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis were subsequently published online by The Hollywood Reporter and other digital publications.

Danny Masterson's Career and Connection to the Couple

Danny Masterson was a part of the cast of "That '70s Show" alongside Ashton Kutcher, Mila Kunis, and Topher Grace from 1998 to 2006. He later reunited with Ashton Kutcher in the 2016 Netflix comedy series "The Ranch." However, when the Los Angeles Police Department investigation became public in the following year, he was written off the show.

Judge's Sentencing and Victim Testimonies

During the sentencing, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Charlaine F. Olmedo considered statements from the victims as well as pleas for fairness from defence attorneys. Ashton Kutcher's character letter dated July 27, 2023, described Danny Masterson as a man who treated people with decency, equality, and generosity.

Mila Kunis' Perspective

In her letter to the judge, Mila Kunis referred to Danny Masterson as "an outstanding role model and friend" and an "exceptional older brother figure." She expressed her admiration for him.

Acknowledgment of Victims

In their video apology, Mila Kunis emphasized that their letters were never intended to undermine the testimony of the victims. She conveyed their heartfelt empathy for all individuals who have experienced sexual assault, sexual abuse, or rape.

FAQs

Are Ashton Kutcher and Danny Masterson still friends?

In a letter addressed to Judge Charlaine Olmedo, Ashton expressed, "I first crossed paths with Danny Masterson when I was 20 years old back in 1998. He quickly became a close friend, a committed colleague, and a significant role model in my life. Our connection has persisted over the course of 25 years."

When did Danny Masterson meet his wife?

He tied the knot with actress, model, and singer Bijou Phillips in 2011. Rumor has it that the two first crossed paths in 2005 while they were seated side by side at a celebrity poker match in Las Vegas.