This story contains discussions of rape or sexual assault that may be disturbing. Reader discretion is advised.
Danny Masterson’s lawyers lashed out at a California appeals court after judges rejected his latest bid to overturn his rape convictions. His legal team accused the court of overlooking evidence they believe could have changed the outcome of his trial.
The That ’70s Show actor’s attorneys, Cliff Gardner and Eric Multhaup, vowed to keep fighting as Masterson serves a 30-years-to-life prison sentence. They argued that judges dismissed key details without properly addressing their claims, setting up another legal battle.
Danny Masterson’s attorneys blast the court after his rape convictions are upheld
In comments to TMZ, Gardner criticized Tuesday’s ruling and pointed to what he called “extraordinary new evidence.” He claimed both women whose allegations led to Masterson’s 2023 convictions had described their sexual encounters with the actor as consensual and positive. “Danny is serving a life sentence for crimes he did not commit,” Gardner said.
Multhaup offered further details about the defense’s claims. He alleged that one woman had described sex with Masterson to two close friends as her “best sex ever,” before she accused him of forcible rape. He also claimed the second woman once discussed her experience with Masterson during a lighthearted conversation with another woman who had slept with him.
Multhaup argued that these alleged conversations could have affected the jury’s decision. He said neither account reached the jury and accused the appeals court of ignoring the material in its ruling. Both women now seek damages from Masterson in separate civil lawsuits, according to Multhaup.
The attorneys also attacked the court’s handling of the prosecution’s case. Multhaup called its discussion a “one-paragraph summary” and argued that the ruling’s “cursory treatment reflects poorly on the administration of justice.” Masterson’s legal team planned to ask the California Supreme Court to review the decision. They also intended to continue challenging his convictions through separate legal proceedings.
The actor, best known for playing Steven Hyde on That ’70s Show, received his sentence after a jury convicted him in 2023 of raping two women. He has maintained his innocence throughout the case. For now, the appeals court’s decision leaves the convictions intact. His attorneys, however, showed no sign of backing down, keeping the case alive through further legal challenges.
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
