In the aftermath of Danny Masterson’s conviction for rape, the public was confronted with his prison mugshot, marking a significant moment in a long legal saga. Masterson faced allegations of sexually assaulting three women between 2001 and 2003, leading to a legal battle that stretched over several years. Initially charged in June 2020, Masterson’s arrest and subsequent release on a hefty bail of $3.3 million made headlines. Throughout the legal proceedings, Masterson consistently professed his innocence, supported by his attorney, Tom Mesereau.
After two years of legal maneuvering, Masterson’s first trial commenced in October 2022, only to culminate in a mistrial due to the jury’s inability to reach a unanimous decision in November 2022. Subsequently, a second trial began in April 2023, resulting in a guilty verdict for raping two women. This conviction led to Masterson’s sentencing to 30 years in prison on September 7, 2023. Addressing Masterson during sentencing, Judge Charlaine Olmedo underscored that despite his claims of innocence, he was not the victim in this situation, highlighting the gravity of his actions.
Despite his sentence, Masterson’s recent emergence in a new prison mugshot grabbed public attention. Released on December 27, the image depicted him in an orange jumpsuit, sporting a disheveled appearance with an overgrown beard and unkempt hair. This visual portrayal of Masterson’s transformation into a convict sparked reactions across social media platforms. Some expressed satisfaction with his incarceration, condemning his past actions, while others contemplated the stark shift from his once-celebrated status to his current state behind bars.
In this tumultuous period, opinions on Masterson remain divided. While he has lost favor with many, certain individuals from the entertainment industry, notably his former “That ’70s Show” co-stars Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher, have continued to support him. Kutcher described Masterson as a positive influence, emphasizing his character, while Kunis portrayed him as an older sibling figure who offered guidance throughout her career.
Masterson’s journey from fame to incarceration has elicited mixed emotions, sparking discussions on justice, celebrity support, and the repercussions of criminal behavior.