Danny Masterson: From 'That '70s Show' to Allegations and Legal Controversy

 

Danny Masterson is an American actor and producer best known for his role as Steven Hyde on the popular television sitcom "That '70s Show." Born on March 13, 1976, in Albertson, New York, Masterson began his acting career at a young age and achieved significant success in the entertainment industry.

Masterson's acting career took off in the late 1990s when he landed the role of Steven Hyde, the sarcastic and rebellious friend of the main character Eric Forman (played by Topher Grace) on "That '70s Show." The show, which aired from 1998 to 2006, became a cultural phenomenon and helped Masterson gain widespread recognition and a loyal fan base.

Following the success of "That '70s Show," Masterson appeared in various film and television projects. He starred in movies such as "Dracula 2000," "Puff, Puff, Pass," and "Yes Man" alongside Jim Carrey. He also had recurring roles on TV shows like "Cybill" and "Men at Work."

However, in recent years, Masterson's career has been overshadowed by serious allegations of sexual assault. In 2017, four women accused him of rape, dating back to the early 2000s. The allegations resurfaced in the wake of the #MeToo movement, and in 2020, Masterson was formally charged with three counts of rape by force or fear. He has denied all the allegations and pleaded not guilty.

Due to the serious nature of the allegations against him, Masterson's career has suffered a significant setback. In December 2020, he was written out of the Netflix comedy series "The Ranch," in which he had a leading role. The streaming platform cited the ongoing legal proceedings as the reason for his departure.

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the legal case against Masterson is ongoing, and the outcome has not been determined. It is essential to remember that everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The case surrounding Danny Masterson highlights the complex nature of separating an artist's work from their personal life. While he made a significant impact with his portrayal of Steven Hyde on "That '70s Show," his career has been marred by the serious allegations against him. The outcome of the legal proceedings will ultimately determine how his legacy is remembered in the entertainment industry.