TRIGGER WARNING: The article contains references to rape and abuse.Three years after Danny Masterson’s conviction in his rape case, the actor formally filed an appeal challenging the 2023 verdict. Stating that the judgment was biased due to his controversial religion, Scientology, Masterson appealed to the court; however, a judge officially denied the appeal.
Danny Masterson’s appeal in the rape conviction case was denied by the judge
Entertainment Weekly reported that Masterson’s appeal to the court regarding his rape conviction has been denied. A panel of three judges from the Second Appellate District upheld the verdict during a hearing on Tuesday this week.The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office also issued an official statement about the matter, sharing, “We appreciate the Court of Appeal’s decision to uphold Danny Masterson’s conviction, affirming the just outcome through the judicial process in 2023. Our office remains committed to seeking justice for victims and that those who commit crimes are held accountable under the law.”According to the actor’s appeal, he stated that there should have been a 10-year statute of limitations on the charges filed against him, since they date back to the early 2000s. The appeals court added: “Forcible rape offences committed against more than one person are not subject to any statutory limitations period.” His appeal also included a rejected argument that the punishment should have been limited to eight years maximum for every charge he received.According to the report, after being convicted in 2023, he received 15 years to life on every count of forcible rape, which amounted to a total prison term of 30 years to life. Earlier, the three victims who had come forward about the crimes that gave rise to the case alleged that they had met the actor through his religion, Scientology. During their meetings, he had given them drinks that had been laced with sedatives and had forced himself on them at his Hollywood Hills home. The incidents reportedly happened between 2001 and 2003. All three people also revealed that at the time, the Scientology church discouraged them from coming out with the truth.His appeal was filed in November 2025, during which he also initially blamed his defense attorney at the time for the case’s result. A statement was issued by his current lawyer, Eric S. Multhaup, at the time, which read: “The unfairness of the second Masterson trial was the result of prosecutorial misconduct, judicial bias, and the failure of defense counsel to present exculpatory evidence. The jury heard only half the story—the prosecution’s side. Danny deserves a new trial where the jury can hear his side as well.”Danny Masterson is best known for his roles on projects like ‘That 70s Show,’ ‘The Ranch,’ ‘Men at Work,’ ‘Smiley Face,’ ‘Beethoven’s 2nd,’ ‘Urge,’ ‘Face/Off,’ and many others.DISCLAIMER: If you or someone you know is struggling with abuse, please seek help. Numerous helplines and support resources are available.