Actors Mila Kunis and Ashton Kutcher have issued apologies for writing letters to a judge requesting leniency for their former That '70s Show co-star, Danny Masterson. Masterson was recently sentenced to 30 years to life in prison after being convicted of raping multiple women in the Church of Scientology two decades ago.
In a joint video posted on Instagram, Kunis and Kutcher explained that they were approached by Masterson's family to write the letters in support of their former co-star. They emphasized that the letters were not intended to question the legitimacy of the judicial system or the validity of the jury's ruling. Additionally, they stated that the letters were not meant to undermine the testimony of the victims or re-traumatize them.
The letters, which were obtained by various outlets, contained personal statements from Kutcher and Kunis about their relationship with Masterson. Kutcher referred to Masterson as a "friend, dedicated co-worker, and role model," and stated that they have remained friends since they first met in 1998. Kunis described Masterson as an "amazing friend, confidant, and an outstanding older brother figure."
Danny Masterson was sentenced to a 30-year to life prison term, with the possibility of parole after 25 years. The charges against him carried sentences of 15 years to life in prison. Masterson rose to fame playing Steven Hyde on That '70s Show and has since had starring roles in Men at Work and The Ranch. He was convicted of two counts of forcible rape in June, following a trial over allegations that he sexually assaulted three women associated with the Church of Scientology. A third count was dismissed after a mistrial was declared.
The apologies from Kunis and Kutcher come in the wake of Masterson's sentencing and further shed light on the complex dynamics surrounding the case. The letters written by the Hollywood couple were intended to advocate for their former co-star, but their apologies clarify that they did not intend to discredit the victims' testimonies or the legal process. As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how it will affect the individuals involved and the broader conversation surrounding sexual assault and the entertainment industry.