Famous for his role as Steven Hyde on That ’70s Show, Danny Masterson is also a producer, DJ, and actor in the United States. However, Masterson has been at the center of several controversies, including sexual assault and harassment claims, in recent years. This article will examine Masterson’s career and the criticisms that have been leveled against him.
Career Highlights
On March 13, 1976, Danny Masterson entered this world on Long Island, New York. His acting career began when he was just four years old, and he appeared in various commercials before winning his first role in the TV movie “Jake’s Journey” in 1988. After making appearances on a number of other shows and films, Masterson finally found his niche in 1998 with his portrayal of Steven Hyde on That ’70s Show. For eight years, from 1998 to 2006, he was widely praised for his portrayal of the character.
Masterson’s acting career didn’t end after That ’70s Show; he went on to appear in productions like Men at Work (on TBS), The Ranch (on Netflix), and The Bridge to Nowhere (in theaters). He also dabbled with producing and DJing, helping to establish the Hollywood nightclub and record label LAX.
Controversies and Allegations
- Four women came forward with rape allegations against Masterson in 2017, prompting an investigation by the Los Angeles Police Department. Masterson has refuted the accusations and has not been criminally prosecuted. However, Netflix dismissed Masterson from The Ranch in December 2017 due to “very troubling” allegations.
- Masterson is a member of the Church of Scientology, which was sued in 2019 by four women who claimed they were harassed and stalked after reporting sexual assault allegations against Masterson to the LAPD. The case continues despite denials from both Masterson and the church.
- Masterson was arrested and accused with three charges of rape in 2020. After entering a not guilty plea, his trial is scheduled to commence in May 2023.
Impact on Masterson’s Career
The allegations leveled against Masterson have severely damaged his professional reputation. Since his dismissal from The Ranch, he has not had any significant roles in television or film. Masterson’s inability to work in the entertainment sector has been compounded by the continuing legal processes.
Danny Masterson: An Overview of His Career and Controversies – Continued
Impact on the Industry
The entertainment industry as a whole has been affected by Masterson’s case. Many cases of sexual assault and harassment in the workplace have been brought to light by the #MeToo movement, and Masterson’s is no exception. greater accountability and openness in Hollywood and greater help for sexual assault survivors have been brought to light by the allegations against him.
The survivors who have come forward with charges against Masterson have received support from several prominent actors, producers, and others in the entertainment industry. Chrissy Teigen is just one of several celebrities who have spoken out about the need for Masterson to face consequences for his alleged behavior.
The possible involvement of Scientology in the claims against Masterson has also been called into doubt. The women who reported Masterson to the police say they were harassed and threatened by the church after they reported him for sexual misconduct. Some have demanded that the church be held to account, while others have criticized its power and influence in the entertainment industry.
Conclusion
Danny Masterson has had a successful and controversial career. While his role in That ’70s Show brought him widespread fame, allegations of sexual assault have severely damaged his reputation and career. The future of Masterson is uncertain while the legal proceedings continue.
The ups and downs of Danny Masterson’s career have prompted a broader discussion on sexual assault and harassment in the media and entertainment industries. The claims against him have brought to light the need for greater transparency and knowledge of these issues, as well as for greater accountability and support for survivors. It remains to be seen what effect Masterson’s case will have on the industry as a whole as the legal proceedings continue. One thing is certain, though: efforts to raise awareness and hold perpetrators accountable must continue. The discussion of sexual assault and harassment is far from over.