Danny Masterson, an actor known for his roles in That 70s Show and The Ranch, has been charged with the rape of three different women.
The charges were brought against him yesterday (17 June) by the Los Angeles District Attorney, and could see him spend up to 45 years in prison. The charges pertain to three different women, all in their 20s, in incidents that occurred between 2001 and 2003.
The allegations first emerged during the beginning of the #MeToo movement in 2017, and resulted in Netflix firing Masterson from their sitcom The Ranch. The police investigation and subsequent charges are a result of those allegations.
Masterson denies the charges, and
Deadline published a statement from his lawyer which reads: "Mr. Masterson is innocent, and we’re confident that he will be exonerated when all the evidence finally comes to light and witnesses have the opportunity to testify."
"Obviously, Mr. Masterson and his wife are in complete shock considering that these nearly 20-year-old allegations are suddenly resulting in charges being filed, but they and their family are comforted knowing that ultimately the truth will come out."
Legal proceedings will continue in September of this year.
Masterson, a member of the Church of Scientology, played Hyde on That 70s Show. He is the brother of Christopher Masterson, who is best known for playing the role of Francis on Malcolm in the Middle.
