Former 'That '70s Show' actor Danny Masterson has formally asked a California court to throw out his rape convictions, arguing that errors by his previous legal team deprived him of a fair trial.
Grounds for the Appeal
In documents filed on November 17, 2025, Masterson's new legal representatives contended that his original defense lawyers made critical mistakes that directly impacted the trial's outcome. The actor was convicted in 2023 on multiple counts of rape dating back to the early 2000s.
The court filing specifically points to what Masterson's team characterizes as inadequate pretrial preparation and failure to properly challenge certain evidence presented by prosecutors. This legal maneuver represents the latest development in a case that has drawn significant media attention since allegations first surfaced.
Background of the Case
Masterson, known for his role as Steven Hyde on the popular television series 'That '70s Show,' was investigated for years before formal charges were brought. The allegations involve incidents that reportedly occurred between 2001 and 2003.
The original trial concluded with Masterson receiving a substantial prison sentence, though he has remained incarcerated while his legal team pursues various appeals. The Church of Scientology, of which Masterson is a known member, has been mentioned throughout the proceedings, though the organization has distanced itself from the case.
Legal Precedents and Next Steps
Claims of ineffective assistance of counsel represent a common basis for appeals in the American justice system. However, legal experts note that successfully overturning convictions on these grounds requires demonstrating that the lawyer's performance fell below professional standards and that this directly harmed the defendant's case.
The prosecution now has time to respond to Masterson's petition before the appellate court makes its determination. The outcome could either result in a new trial or uphold the original conviction, with significant implications for both Masterson and similar cases moving forward.
This development continues the legal saga that has effectively ended Masterson's acting career and drawn attention to Hollywood's handling of sexual assault allegations.
