After Danny Masterson’s sentencing, actors Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis have publicly apologized for the letters they penned in support of Masterson prior to the sentencing. The disclosure of these letters, which occurred post-sentencing, has generated significant controversy.
Former “That ’70s Show” actor Danny Masterson has been sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for the rape of two women in 2003. This significant development in a widely followed case occurred in Los Angeles.
Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis Extend Apologies Following 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 prior to the sentencing. These letters, which became public post-sentencing, have generated controversy, leading the couple to express their remorse.
Instagram Video Addressing the Issue Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis chose to address the matter through an Instagram video. In the video, the couple acknowledged the potential distress their letters may have caused.
Intent Behind the Letters Ashton
Kutcher clarified that their letters were intended for the judge overseeing the case and were not meant to discredit the victims’ testimonies or cause any further harm. They expressed their genuine intention to avoid causing distress and conveyed regret if their letters had unintended repercussions.
Request for Letters from Masterson’s Family
The couple explained that Danny Masterson’s family had approached them after the actor’s conviction in May, requesting character letters. These letters were intended to offer a perspective on Masterson based on their 25-year-long relationship with him. They emphasized their desire to portray the person they had known throughout the years.
Publication of the Letters
The character letters authored by Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis were subsequently published online by The Hollywood Reporter and other digital media outlets.
Masterson’s Career and Ties to the Couple Danny Masterson was part of the “That ’70s Show” cast 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 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 took into consideration statements from the victims and pleas for fairness from defense attorneys. Ashton Kutcher’s character letter, dated July 27, 2023, portrayed Danny Masterson as a man known for treating people with decency, fairness, and generosity.
Mila Kunis’ Perspective In her letter to the judge, Mila Kunis described Danny Masterson as “an exceptional older brother figure” and “an outstanding role model and friend.” She expressed her admiration for him.
Acknowledging the Victims In their video apology, Mila Kunis emphasized that their letters were never intended to undermine the victims’ testimony. They conveyed their heartfelt empathy for all individuals who have experienced sexual assault, sexual abuse, or rape.